Supported Intern Josh Milner has impressed the team at his weekly work placement so much that they’ve asked him to stay on now that he’s graduated. What’s more, he’s even been able to make his mark on the pub menu!
Josh, who works at the White Horse pub in Shrewsbury is proud to have helped to create one of the weekly Chef’s Special – curried chicken naan bread toastie with a mint yoghurt dip.
Josh, who lives in Gobowen, near Oswestry, has learning difficulties and speech and communication needs. He is 25 years old and has just completed a one-year supported internship after completing Derwen College’s Hospitality & Food pathway.
Josh’s internship sees him take on work placements to hone his skills ready for employment. He also works at Derwen College’s The Orangery Restaurant and The Walled Garden Café, Nightingales charity shop, and Ye Olde Boote inn in Whittington.
Josh loves Thursdays at The White Horse
Josh has been travelling to the White Horse pub in Shrewsbury once a week as part of his internship. He loves his Thursdays there working with chef Mitch Robins, supported by job coach Julie Lockley.
Chef Mitch said: “Josh is a pleasure to work with and we’ve seen so much progression. When he first started with us, we put him on potato peeling duties – which is where all our trainees start. The first day it took him all morning. After a few weeks, he realised that if he finished peeling quickly then he could move on to other, more challenging, jobs.
“He’s become more confident and is using initiative to see what needs doing. He always has a positive attitude and takes pride in his work. He loves listening to Michael Jackson, and we’re all learning to love it too!”
“We have a regular menu but enjoy having fun with Chef Specials. We worked with Josh to create his own special, the curried chicken naan toastie. It’s was really popular with customers, so I’m hoping we can feature it again soon.”
Josh says: “I love working here, especially learning new things and making my own dish.”
Congratulations, Josh!
Josh’s job coach Julie says: “Josh helps prep, including peeling vegetables ahead of the pub’s busy Sunday service, which regularly feeds over 100 people.
“He cuts cabbage, peels carrots and potatoes, and as he’s progressed is learning how to make some of favourite dishes including chicken burger, lemon posset and sticky toffee pudding.”
“As he’s got more confident, he hasn’t needed my support. He gets to work straight away, grabbing his pinny and ready to go!
“It’s great news that the manager and kitchen team are keen to keep Josh on as an employee. This is the best possible outcome for one of our supported interns to achieve. Well done, Josh and thank you to the lovely team at The White Horse.”