The Right Course: Transforming Lives Through Hospitality Training

In an era where rehabilitation is increasingly prioritized, The Right Course stands out as a pioneering charity dedicated to reshaping the lives of prisoners by providing them with essential hospitality skills and sustainable employment opportunities. Founded by Fred Sirieix, a well-known figure in the hospitality industry, The Right Course aims to create a transformative pathway into the hospitality sector, equipping inmates with the skills necessary to succeed upon their release.

Background and Purpose

The inspiration for The Right Course emerged from Fred Sirieix’s visit to HMP/YOI Isis in 2017, where he recognized the potential of the hospitality industry to play a vital role in the rehabilitation process. The initiative began with an innovative pilot project that transformed the prison staff canteen into a trendy pop-up restaurant, offering an authentic dining experience to VIP guests. This venture not only upgraded the prison’s facilities but also sparked a broader vision to establish a nationwide hospitality community that supports and nurtures both incarcerated individuals and those reintegrating into society.

The charity’s mission is to convert prison staff restaurants into inspirational training facilities, providing inmates with industry-recognized qualifications and real-world experience. By operating these establishments like mainstream restaurants, The Right Course not only facilitates skill development but also addresses the urgent staffing and skills shortages prevalent in the hospitality sector.

At the core of The Right Course’s philosophy are values such as generosity, hard work, and discipline. By imparting essential professional foundations alongside key life skills, the organization aims to prepare participants for successful reintegration into society and reduce re-offending rates. Fred Sirieix emphasizes the importance of providing learners with the right skills and experiences to secure meaningful employment, which ultimately contributes to the well-being of the community.

Innovative Training Restaurants

Central to The Right Course’s methodology is the transformation of prison facilities into fully functioning restaurants. These establishments provide a realistic training ground for inmates, allowing them to engage in various aspects of restaurant operations, from food preparation to customer service. The hands-on experience is complemented by a bespoke curriculum that includes both technical skills and emotional intelligence, ensuring that learners are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of the hospitality industry.

The training environment fosters teamwork and collaboration, instilling new values while providing a foundation for personal growth. The restaurants also serve as neutral spaces for inmates, facilitating behavior adaptation in preparation for reintegration into society. For prison officers and potential employers, these establishments offer a unique opportunity to observe the positive transformations of learners in real-time.

Impact on Learners

The success of The Right Course is reflected in its impressive statistics. In 2024, 87% of learners achieved at least one qualification during their training, with 56% securing employment upon release. For those who maintain contact post-release, the employment rate soars to 85%. Such figures highlight the profound impact of the initiative on participants’ lives, underscoring its effectiveness in facilitating successful reintegration.

One graduate from The Escape Restaurant expressed gratitude for the support received, stating, “The Right Course has always been supportive. From day one, they guided me through the most difficult period of my life. They provided incredible training and sourced excellent employment opportunities.”

Benefits to Hospitality Businesses

The hospitality industry has long faced staffing challenges, exacerbated by skills shortages and high turnover rates. The Right Course addresses these issues by providing a pipeline of trained, motivated, and work-ready individuals eager to embark on careers in hospitality. Partnering with the charity allows businesses to access a pool of candidates who have undergone rigorous training and demonstrated a commitment to personal and professional development.

Employers benefit from accessing a group of individuals equipped with industry-recognized qualifications and practical experience, which reduces the time and resources required for onboarding and training. Additionally, by supporting the rehabilitation of ex-offenders, businesses can enhance their corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile and positively impact society.

Opportunities for Involvement

The Right Course actively seeks collaboration with hospitality professionals and businesses to expand its reach and impact. Industry stakeholders can participate through mentorship and training, offering guidance and insights to learners. Businesses can also provide employment partnerships, work placements, or apprenticeships, benefiting from the skills of graduates while supporting their transition into the workforce.

Financial contributions through sponsorship and donations are invaluable for developing and expanding training facilities and resources necessary for effective training. Furthermore, industry leaders can champion the cause by raising awareness about The Right Course and advocating for policies that support rehabilitation through employment.

Fred Sirieix stresses the demand for well-trained, highly skilled workers in the hospitality sector and emphasizes the importance of initiatives like The Right Course in addressing this demand while positively impacting the career prospects of learners.

Leadership and Partnerships

The Right Course is committed to social impact and rehabilitation, collaborating with various partners, including hospitality businesses, educators, trainers, government entities, and suppliers. This collaborative approach ensures that learners receive comprehensive training and support, aligned with industry standards and expectations.

Graduates of the program often express gratitude for the support they receive, with one stating, “I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped and supported me so far—it means a great deal to both me and my family.”

Transforming Lives Through Hospitality Training

The Right Course exemplifies the power of innovative approaches to rehabilitation, yielding profound benefits for individuals and industries alike. By equipping prisoners with essential hospitality skills and facilitating their transition into meaningful employment, the charity not only transforms lives but also addresses critical workforce challenges within the hospitality sector. Businesses engaging with The Right Course enrich their teams with skilled, motivated individuals while contributing to a socially responsible cause that fosters community well-being and economic growth.

If you are a hospitality employer interested in getting involved, please reach out to simon.sheehan@therightcourse.org.uk. Follow The Right Course on social media at @RightCourse_UK and visit their website for more information: The Right Course.