Skills that stick: What you’ll learn in an M&B Bar and Waiting Apprenticeship

Let’s be honest, some of the most valuable life skills aren’t picked up from textbooks or lecture halls. They come from real moments, like juggling five drink orders while smiling at table seven and making sure the nachos definitely don’t go to the wrong group.

That’s where an M&B Bar and Waiting Apprenticeship comes in. It’s your chance to earn while you learn, build confidence on the floor, and pick up skills that go way beyond the bar. 

Dreaming of a long-term career in hospitality? Or maybe you're looking to grow your people skills (and your CV) along the way? This apprenticeship gives you all the tools and support to make it happen. 

More than a job: Why choose an Apprenticeship with M&B?

Sure, you’ll be pouring pints and taking food orders but an M&B apprenticeship is so much more than that. 

It’s a front-row seat to how a buzzing pub or restaurant really runs, plus a chance to learn the ropes while getting paid (yes, seriously).

You won’t be left to figure things out on your own, either. From day one as an Apprentice, you’ll have proper training, friendly mentors, and a team that’s got your back, even on those extra-busy Saturday shifts. 

And the best bit? You’ll be learning real-life skills you can use forever, not just for now.

So if you like the idea of earning, learning, and building confidence in a fast-paced, people-first environment, this could be your perfect place to start.

The core skills you’ll learn as a Bar and Waiting Apprentice

Now for the good stuff: let’s talk about the skills you’ll pick up on the job. Spoiler alert: they’re not just useful behind the bar.

• Customer service magic – You'll learn how to make guests feel welcome, looked after, and coming back for more. A friendly face and great chat go a long way.
  
  
• Top-notch communication – Whether it’s taking orders, chatting with your team, or letting the kitchen know table 9 wants no onions, you’ll get super confident with clear, fast, and friendly communication.
  
  
• Being a team player – You’ll quickly see how everything runs smoother when everyone’s in sync. Think of it like being part of a well-oiled machine, just with more laughs and better snacks.
  
  
• Time management wizardry – When it’s busy (and it will be), you’ll learn how to juggle tasks like a pro and keep things moving without breaking a sweat.
  
  
• Menu and drinks knowledge – From knowing your way around the drinks menu to helping guests pick the perfect meal, you’ll become a go-to expert in no time.
  
  
• Problem-solving under pressure – Things don’t always go to plan, but you’ll learn how to stay calm, think on your feet, and find a fix, fast.
  
  
• Money-handling know-how – Cash, card, tips, you’ll be trusted with handling payments and doing it all with accuracy and confidence.
  
  

It’s all hands-on, and everything you learn has real value, inside the hospitality world and way beyond it.

Apprenticeship skills that stay with you

The best part? These aren’t just “on-the-job” skills, they’re life skills. The kind that sticks with you no matter where you go next. These are known as transferable skills. 

You’ll walk away from your apprenticeship with more than just bar smarts. We’re talking confidence, quick thinking, people skills, and the ability to stay cool when the pressure’s on (which, let’s be real, comes in handy everywhere). 

From future job interviews to group projects, from dealing with tricky customers to handling life’s curveballs, you’ll be more prepared than most.

Because when you’ve handled a packed-out Friday night shift, you can definitely handle a busy inbox or team meeting.

In short? This apprenticeship sets you up for whatever’s next, wherever that may be.

Check out our latest Bar and Waiting Apprenticeships and take your first step into something brilliant.