Local man Antony Phillips is feeling the heat in the kitchen thanks to an employment course run by Everton in the Community.
Antony, from Belle Vale, completed the ‘Everton 4 Employment’ programme in December 2009 and has enjoyed full-time employment in the kitchens of one of Liverpool’s top hotels, the Crowne Plaza, ever since.
The 24-year-old had been unemployed for almost six months after dropping out of his university course in 2009 and was struggling to decide what he wanted to do with his life.
When he was referred to the Everton 4 Employment course by his Jobcentre Plus advisor, he jumped at the chance to develop his skills and reach his full potential.
“I was at university for nearly two years and packed my course in so I was in limbo really as to what I wanted to do,” he said.
“Once on the course, I found it very useful and it helped with writing your CV, interview techniques and most of all, really builds your confidence.
“As part of the course, I did a work placement at the Crowne Plaza and originally I was to spend a week in the kitchens and then the bar area but after my first week, the Head Chef offered me an extra week there. I really enjoyed it so I took that option and from there they offered me a 16-hour contract and eventually a 40-hour contract.
“When I started it was mainly prep work but now I’m a Commis Chef and I’ve got my own section. I really enjoy it and now I’m on the ladder, I want to work my way up.”
With 18 months experience under his belt, the course has helped to transform Antony’s career prospects and he wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to other jobseekers.
“As a football fan, if a Premier League team are doing something for the community and helping people into employment then it’s a big deal. Just being in the surroundings and seeing how the football club works really appealed to me.
“If somebody has the opportunity to do the Everton 4 Employment programme they should absolutely take the chance.”
Antony is just one of many participants who have secured full-time employment since completing the course.
For more information about the course call 0151 530 5253.
