Helping Young People Take Their First Steps into the World of Catering

The catering industry is an important part of the wider hospitality sector, generating billions for the UK economy each year. 

For young people with ambition and a passion for food or event planning, catering can be an exciting career choice. 

But how can employers, parents, and mentors encourage and support them to take those first steps?

Show Them the Business Potential

Catering isn’t just about cooking – it’s about building a viable business. Encourage young people to learn about logistics, customer service, costing, and marketing alongside food skills. This will help them see catering as a long-term career option, not just a job.

Promote Education and Apprenticeships

Colleges, training providers, and apprenticeships give structure to a young person’s career journey. Work experience placements, part-time roles, or even shadowing opportunities all help them understand the real-world demands of catering.

Emphasise Transferable Skills

Catering teaches organisation, teamwork, and problem-solving – skills that are highly valued across industries. Framing the sector as a springboard to wider opportunities can help young people (and their parents) see its long-term worth.

Support Their Networking

Encourage them to connect with local businesses, catering firms, or event organisers. Industry contacts are invaluable, and many caterers get their start through personal introductions or seasonal opportunities.

Bottom line: By encouraging education, networking, and an entrepreneurial mindset, we can inspire the next generation to build strong careers in catering – strengthening not only their futures but the hospitality industry as a whole.