The Aston Villa Foundation launches Villa Catering Club

The Aston Villa Foundation are delighted to announce the launch of the Villa Catering Club.

The project, which will be delivered in partnership with Digbeth Dining Club CIC, the Nationwide Caterers Association and South and City College Birmingham, will provide learners with real life work experience, advice on setting up their own food business and qualifications in catering and hospitality.

Delivered at Villa Park over a 16 week period, the programme, which has been funded by the Premier League and Players Football Association is available free of charge to people over the age of 16, will help to support the hospitality industry which has struggled as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ross Alexander, Aston Villa Foundation Manager, said: “The programme was created to help address unemployment in Birmingham and the challenges the hosptality industry has faced since the pandemic.

“It’s great to have such reputable industry leading partners onboard and we hope the relationship will be long lasting and successful. Thanks to the Premier League and PFA for their support.”

 

As a local and fast-growing food business, Digbeth Dining Club CIC were keen to be involved with the project.

Jack Brabant, who founded the Digbeth Dining Club, said: “When we set up Digbeth Dining Club CIC, we had a goal to go into the community and help young people get the skills and the knowledge to get into hospitality and even set up their own businesses.

“We’re really excited to finally get this off the ground.”

Mark Laurie, Director of the Nationwide Caterers Association, said: “We got involved to try and develop entrepreneurs and young people and help them to develop their own businesses, and we’re hoping that working with Aston Villa will give them that opportunity.”

South and City College will be delivering hospitality and catering qualifications to support the young people taking part in the programme.

Jacqui Maher, Assistant Principal Innovation and Developments at South and City College, said: “South and City College are really excited to be involved in this project, it’s absolutely fantastic for us and we’re really happy to be involved.”

To watch the launch video, click here. To register your interest, please email [email protected].