Landmarks’ The Archer, a specialist training pub in Mansfield, marked its 10th anniversary yesterday, welcoming friends, partners and supporters for a day of celebration.
The event brought together current and former learners, staff and local businesses to recognise a decade of The Archer’s unique approach, combining a fully functioning community pub with a live training environment for young people with additional needs.
Since opening its doors, The Archer has supported learners to develop the skills, confidence and experience needed to progress into employment within the hospitality industry, providing hands-on, real-world training in a supportive environment.
As of 2026, 81% of learners trained at The Archer have gone on to secure meaningful employment in hospitality.
Guests at the anniversary event enjoyed a celebratory buffet and heard from a range of speakers, including Campus Manager Brian Harrison and learner Natty Beckett. Both reflected on the impact The Archer has had over the years, highlighting the opportunities it creates for learners to grow in confidence and achieve their goals.
Speaking at the event, Brian Harrison said:
“The Archer is far more than just a pub. It is a fully functioning, real working environment where our learners gain invaluable, hands-on experience in the hospitality and catering sector. From front of house to back of house, learners are immersed in the day-to-day realities of the industry, building confidence, developing skills and learning what it truly means to be part of a team.”
Natty Beckett, a learner who has been at The Archer for seven months, is now pursuing a career in hospitality alongside his aspiration to become an artist. He said:
“The Archer supports people with SEND and conditions like Tourette’s or autism, like me. It’s helped me come out of my shell, build my confidence and learn skills I know I’ll use in the future. It’s a place where you feel part of a team.”
The celebrations also featured a special video message from television presenter and Hairy Biker, Si King, who congratulated the team on their milestone. He described The Archer as
“a place where people are given real opportunities to grow, build confidence and develop skills for life,” adding that learners “should be so proud” of their achievements.
The event welcomed key partners from the hospitality sector, such as Greene King and Nandos, whose ongoing support has helped create meaningful employment pathways for learners beyond their time at The Archer. Reflecting on these partnerships, Brian Harrison added:
“It’s a partnership that works for learners, for employers and for the wider community.”
Over the past decade, The Archer has built a strong reputation not only as a welcoming community pub, but also as a place where lives are changed through opportunity, support and practical learning.
Looking ahead, The Archer remains committed to empowering the next generation of learners, continuing its mission to provide inclusive training, build confidence and create pathways into employment.
