Half Moon
Academy
Building futures through hospitality
An 18-month professional programme for ambitious young people aged 16–21. Real mentorship, industry qualifications and the skills to build a lasting career.
Hospitality is facing a crisis. Young people deserve better.
The hospitality industry is struggling to find and keep great people. At the same time, thousands of young people under 21 are leaving school with no clear direction, no confidence and no real opportunity to build a career they're proud of.
The Half Moon Academy was created to change that. Not with a classroom course or a box-ticking scheme — but with a real job, real mentors and real stakes. Every academy member works alongside our team at The Half Moon Kirdford, learning the craft from the inside out.
We believe hospitality, done properly, can teach young people everything — discipline, creativity, leadership, how to work under pressure and how to make people feel genuinely welcomed. These are skills for life, not just a career.
Kitchen & craftsmanship
Learn to cook at a 2 AA Rosette level from day one. You'll work across every section — knife skills, pasta, bread, butchery, desserts and live service.
Service & hospitality
Step into the dining room and master the art of genuine hospitality — from taking a reservation to recommending a wine, running events and delivering five-star guest experiences.
Leadership & business
The final phase takes you behind the scenes of running a successful hospitality business — P&L, team management, marketing, supplier relationships and entrepreneurship.
Qualifications, career & opportunity.
Every academy member works towards nationally recognised qualifications alongside real operational experience — and leaves with a career pathway that sets them apart.
Led by people who've done it.
Three industry professionals who will guide, challenge and develop you every step of the way.
Gavin Roy
With over 30 years' experience across luxury hotels and independent hospitality, Gavin's career spans some of the UK's most prestigious properties — from 4 Red Star hotels and Hilton's top 20 future business leaders programme, to delivering multi-million pound F&B operations at scale. As Operations Director of The Half Moon Kirdford, he oversees all aspects of operational and financial performance, leads kitchen and front of house operations, and earned the property its 2 AA Rosettes. His expertise in menu development, revenue forecasting, team leadership and high-end guest experience makes him an exceptional mentor for the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Louise Pullen
Five-star hospitality professional specialising in luxury guest experience and service culture. Louise brings world-class front of house standards to every interaction.
James Cooper
General Manager with 25+ years of hospitality experience. James has an exceptional track record in people development and building high-performing teams.
Two positions available.
We're looking for driven 16–21 year olds ready to commit, learn and grow into hospitality professionals. No experience needed — just ambition and a work ethic to match.
Are you a college, council or hospitality business? We'd love to explore a partnership.
Get in touch