D&D London launches paid 'summer school' to tackle staff shortages

D&D London is to launch a paid training programme to help tackle staff shortages across its restaurants.

The 'summer school' will include commis chef, commis waiter and bar courses designed to help people with little or no experience enter the hospitality industry.

The first week-long programme will be held at 100 Wardour Street in London's Soho from 5 July, with 30 participants.

Learners will undergo mock interviews and receive CV feedback, with successful candidates offered a job at one of D&D's restaurants.

Students on the commis chef course will train in food safety, knife skills, allergens and hygiene standards and learn skills such as pasta making, bread baking and how to prepare the perfect omelette.

The bar course will be lead by ambassadors from drinks brands including Diageo, Asahi and Pernod-Ricard with training including safety regulations and drinks masterclasses.

Participants on the commis waiters course will learn how to provide good service and understand the importance of teamwork.

The week will conclude with a graduation ceremony attended by D&D founders Des Gunewardena and David Loewi.

Carol Cairnes, people director at D&D, said: "We are really looking forward to the start of the summer school and I do feel that it will bring high quality staff into D&D. Although we hope all participants join us, even if they don't, they will be more equipped and confident to explore a career in the hospitality industry in general."

If successful, the school will be continued throughout the summer.