Chef Benson-Smith Training Academy

Chef Benson-Smith Training Academy, based at Dean Clough Mills in Halifax, is a government-approved independent training provider specialising in hospitality and catering apprenticeships and food industry consultancy. Established in 2014 by Michelin-trained chef and educator Matthew Benson‑Smith, the academy was set up to empower aspiring chefs, future managers, craft bakers and hospitality businesses to achieve their goals. Since gaining approval as an independent training provider in 2018, the organisation has delivered hospitality and catering apprenticeships on a national basis. The academy operates from a practical, purpose-designed training facility and works with workplace clients across the UK to develop skills that meet industry needs. Alongside apprenticeship delivery, Chef Benson‑Smith Training Academy offers food and beverage consultancy and maintains professional memberships with bodies such as the Master Chefs of Great Britain, the Craft Guild of Chefs and West Yorkshire Learning Providers. The academy is also an approved centre for food safety, allergens and HACCP training and works with awarding bodies including First Awards, FDQ and CIEH, supporting employers to develop compliant, high‑standard kitchen and service operations.