Butler

Training
Information
A LIFE
CHANGING
PROGRAM

D ear reader,

we would like to thank you for your demand concerning our butler training. The profession of
butler is a very rewarding choice. Our education puts its focus on training butlers in the classic
skills, both theory and practical.

By following our training you stay connected with our school.Throughout your career we
will support you with information and advice. In this document you will find more practical
information about our course.

I hope that this information gives you a better insight about our school and look forward to
welcoming you to our program. If you should have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Kind regards,

Vincent Vermeulen
Managing director
Information
about the 8 weeks
butler training

T he course starts on Sunday evening with a ceremony where we welcome the students and hand over the necessary
items as well as the guidelines for the coming 8 weeks. You are welcome to arrive a day early. We always finish
on a friday but you can use your room till the Sunday, according to your travel plans. Should you need a pick cup
from the airport, please let us know and we will take care of that.

The training is made up of days where we teach theory and days where we have practical exercises or field trips. The
course starts every day at 08.30am with the exception of visits which are communicated up front with the group. The
day ends around 18.00 pm, except on days with special assignments, dinners and/or field trips.

The course is residential. You can study, work and sleep on the estate. Nearby the town of Hertsberge, only 10
minutes away is the Unesco listed medieval city of Bruges. You really should make the time to visit and we will show
you the best chocolat shops.... ;)

The 8 week butler training exists of over 650 hours

of training. In fact it’s 24 hours a day, since you run
our domain as a real working butler. It doesn’t get
anymore realistic than this...

8 weeks in t ensi v e bu t l er t r a in ing - We advise you to be completely free. In time

and in mind. You will need your full focus to work thru the theory and apply all
practical exercises that all lead up to the examination week.

U niqu e lu xury experience - This week goes much deeper into high end gastronomy.
You will be trained by chefs with 3 star michelin experience, visit places where few
people are allowed and go on a 2 day trip to London to discover the most amazing
brands in the world such as tailors on Savile Row, hotels with full butler training and
recruitment agencies.

T echnol ogy O u r o w n s o f t wa r e - There is a lot to organize in a household: the daily meals,

laundry, transportation, staff and of course the personal service to your principal.
To communicate in every possible direction, we have created our own domestic
management system. This software allows you to keep track of expenses, guest history,
procedures, staff files and much much more...
Fo l l o w i n g i s a l s o i n c l u d e d i n t h e c o u r s e
• 8 weeks of high level training on a 86,000 square feet • Graduation reception (you can invite family)
domain (8000 square meters)
• All field trips, national and international (France and
• Documentation: personal binder + digital documents UK): transportation, meals and photo’s of the trips.

• 2 coffee breaks per day with snacks & light lunch • 2 free high speed wifi points in the estate

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner, bed linen and towels • Netflix account for leisure time

• Fully stocked laundry room for you to use • Priority for a job position and live introduction to
recruitment agency during trip to London.
• A 3 piece bespoke butler uniform, cufflinks, white
gloves and tie are provided with the school logo. • Access to the alumni the SBH online system and our
software.
• High quality presentations, pen and personalized
stationary

Po s s i b l e f i e l d t r i p s / g u e s t s p e a k e r s
• Champagne Bollinger (FR) • Cooking lessons by 3 star Michelin experienced chef

• Rolls Royce • Luxury tastings (Caviar, high level beverages, ...)

• Private jets (upon availability)` • Lunch at high level restaurant

• 2 day trip to London (UK) • Former students come to testify about their current job

• Cheese master • Decorating workshop

• Wine tasting • and much more

• Cigar lighting and presentation

• Expert shoe shining training

Welcome
to estate
Canteclaer

The Garden

Sample list
of topics •
•
Space planning for events
Considerations on setting the ambience
•
•
Dress codes
Menu engineering

Non-Exhaustive
• Style of table service • First impressions
• Tray set up and delivery Synchronized service • Body language Deportment
• What is service? • Walk patterns • How to behave in the presence of your
• The 9 essential butler techniques that will • How to serve breakfast? Principal & off duty
stay with you all your life. • How to serve a breakfast tray into the • Domestic staff plan
• What is hospitality? bedroom? • Employee handbooks and house rules
• The 7 secrets of gentleman’s shirt • Service of refreshments • How to handle staff?
• What is a Butler and what is the difference • Opening still and sparkling wines • Staff performance plan
with other service professionals • Service of wine • Personal Assistant
• 3 Core values and skills of the Butler • Service of champagne • The principal dialogue
• Delivering service excellence • Service of Port, Liqueurs, Cognac and • The guest matrix
• The Butler’s 24 hour day Armagnac • How to deal with a greedy guest?
• The richest people in the world • Decanting wines and ports • Late night retiring guest
• The art of greeting and welcoming • Cigar service • How to deal with a guest who arrived
• Answering the doorbell • SOP’s (Standard of Operational unexpected and uninvited?
• Unexpected visitor - Making a late guest Procedures) • Asking a guest to leave the house, the right
feel welcome • Dinner book way.
• Dining room set-up and considerations - • The cellar Book Guest history • How to remove a drunk person
• Napkin presentation • Drawing a bath • International etiquette and protocol
• How to set up the perfect table for • Gift wrapping • Business cards
breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner? • Turning down beds • Helping guest with coats and jackets
• Formal and Informal Lunch setting • Waking someone up • Seating arrangements
• Afternoon tea setting • The art of recovery: turning complaints • Valeting
• Table decoration into a positive experience • Taking care of a high end wardrobe
• Running a modern kitchen • Anticipating guests needs • Entering a guest room
• Event planning: documents and techniques • High end shops: where are they and how to • Telephone etiquette
• Events around the world recognize quality • ...
State of the art
Kitchen

Walk in Dressing

Shoe care
How to
Draw a bath training

Living room
Clothing
requirements

D uring normal training days we ask you to wear a

navy blue suit. As you will learn, it is not advisable
to wear a suit two days in a row. Therefor we suggest you
bring two suits.

Don’t forget we will provide you with a butler suit as

well. This is to be worn during formal dinners with real
guests and tests.

D a r k n av y b l u e s u i t 2 buttons
handkerchief not necessary, here as Breast pocket
illustration purposes 2 side pockets
classical trousers without creases
black socks

suit Suggestion: click here

White shirt Double cuff

Half cutaway collar without buttons

shirt suggestion: click here

Shoes Black oxford style shoes (no brogues!)

We recommend high quality shoes in
calf leather.

Ladies can wear stylish heels (maximum

4cm)
Butler
training
investment

Tr a inings 2017 5th February – 31st March

14th May – 7th July
8th october - 1st december

€ 14500 all-in for 8 weeks (= €258 per day)

C onfirmation of your application upon reception of 50% of the course fee. Remaining sum is due 6 weeks prior to
the start of the course.

The deposit is not refundable. In case of sickness, the training can be followed at another time.

Every 8 week training is limited to 10 students.

We recommend bringing a laptop or tablet computer.

All courses are given in English, knowledge of the English language is essential in order to follow the lessons and
communicate with your fellow students. We do speak French, Dutch and a little German and are more than happy to
explain certain things on the side in these languages.

We don’t offer any payment plans.

Should you need any assistance in Visa matters, please inform us. We are more than happy to send you an invitation
you might need for your embassy. Everny Visa demand is preceeded by a mandatory video conferencing interview.

Ca ncell ations

We understand that certain things might happen that prevent you to attend. If you cancel more than
3 months before the training, we will reimburse you fully. Should you cancel within 3 months of the start of a
training the deposit is not refundable but can be used for another training wihtin 15 months from the start of the
course.
ENROLLMENT
FORM
BUTLER TRAINING
D ear student,

please complete and sign this form, hereby you confirm

• The tuition is not refundable, in case of sickness
during the course, the remainder can be followed at
another time.
that:
• The school does not guarantee a position upon
• You sign up for the 8 week butler training completing the training. The school does present
students to clients and our partner recruitment agency.
• You understand the english language enough to follow
the courses and interact with teachers and fellow • You need to reach an acceptable level during the
students. training in order to obtain the certificate at graduation.

• You have taken knowledge of the tuition fee. 50% • Should you wish not to be featured in taken photos or
of the tuition fee is to be paid as confirmation of film, you need to tell us.
enrollment, the remaining 50% no later than 6 weeks
prior to the start of the course.

• This form needs to be returned signed by mail or

email (scan).

First name: Surname:

Adress:

Postal code & location:

Country:

Date of birth:

Cell/phone:

E-mail:

Jacket size (chest size):

Do you have any dietary requirements ?

Are there any medical issues we should be aware of ?

Tell us about your preferences. How do you take your coffee (or tea), what is your favorite dish, do you have any fun
habits... ? Tell us anything to make your stay more enjoyable.

Any other remarks ?

Date a nd signat ure

By signing this document I agree to the terms and conditions.

Ple a se re turn w i th te rm s a nd c ondi t ion s signe d a s we ll (se e e nd of do c ume n t)
Don’t take
our word
for it…
listen to what former students are saying

“Very professional training! Nice to have a

professional that has been in the field and
knows the little things that are life-changing.”
Dirk V. - November 2015

“Merci beaucoup pour cette superbe aventure,

j’ai appris énormément, un grand merci
Monsieur Vermeulen!”
Martin S. - November 2015
“A great experience I will always remember. I am
sure this training will certainly change my life.”
Martine S. (Italy) - November 2015

“The training is an incredible

experience full of fascinating and
highly interesting information, also
for our daily lives.”
Kevin D. - November 2015

“First of all thank you for

changing my life, especially as a
professional!”
G. Demoyer - September 2014
 “Thank you so much for this eye-
opening experience! This was a
training I will remember
for the rest of my life”
Wim M. - January 2015

“Thank you soooo much for this

wonderful experience. It was the
best choice to be here!”
Adriana B. - January 2015

“A life changing program...”

François P. - September 2014

“Une très belle formation, de belles visites et pleins

de choses apprises. Merci pour tout”
Sidali Z. (France) - January 2015
“Muchas gracias por esta increíble experiencia el
comienzo de muchísimas... este entrenamiento fue la
mejor decision de mi vida!”
RV Calatayud, Mexico - September 2014

“Cette belle experience à changé

ma vision professionnelle!”
Alice B. - September 2014

“Thank you to the school for opening closed doors.”

Peter L. - September 2014
Frequently
asked
questions

Do y o u g u a r a n t e e a p o s i t i o n a s b u t l e r Old castles are often challenged to put in the latest

af ter the tr aining? technology and we want you to train no different from
It is quite impossible for any school to guarantee a job. the real job you will be performing.
Why is that? Because finding the right match between Over 95% of our former students are working in houses
butler and family is sometimes very hard. It is a very similar to our training venue. And by the way,
relationship which has to be considered very carefully. there is no better place to enjoy nature and relax in our
Thru our excellent relationship with one of the most amazing garden.
esteemed placement agencies in London we can state Do I n e e d a n y e x p e r i e n c e t o f o l l o w
your chances are very high of securing your first t his cou r se?
experience as a butler. People in the hospitality industry obviously have an
We do feel that the demand is big enough for everyone advantage when starting the training. They might already
to find a job. At more than one occasion our students master certain techniques. But the most important
started a job anywhere between one week to several you need is a great personality and the willingness to
months after the training, depending on personal effort succeed, thàt is exponentially important.
and decisions. Is t her e a n age limit to foll ow t he
tr aining?
We will provide you with a list of hundreds of points of
interest where you can possibly offer your resumé. As of 18 years of age and upwards you can attend our
W h at a bou t t he bu t l er u n if or m?
courses.
Ca n you t ell me mor e a bou t t he field
Yes! Since employers of the 21st century like their butler t r ips a nd w h y you do t hese?
to be dressed to the latest fashion, we provide you with
a modern butler suit. The shape is the original one, the It is difficult to explain in a class room setting in what
color and styling is 21st century class. environment you will be working in, if you don’t have
any experience. Therefor we introduce our students to
This stunning 3 piece suit is made to measure. On the certain companies and products which we feel you should
first evening you will be measured by a professional know. School for Butlers and Hospitality is unique in its
tailor and a few weeks later you will own your very own field trips.
butler uniform.
We are the only butlerschool in the world that let you
We do ask you to bring an navy blue suit. Since you visit a private jet and explore how you will be working
will be wearing a suit for 8 weeks, it is advisable to in it. We also visit the exclusive Champagne Bollinger,
change suits every other day, as you will learn during which is not accessible to the public. The most impressive
our wardrobe training. Details about what suit you need is our 2 day trip to London, where we visit bespoke
for the first weeks is described in detail in our brochure tailors in Savile Row, butler service hotels and other
which you can download when you click here. amazing venues. Next to that we choose our partners
If you like, you can use our extensive wardrobe to change very carefully, they are all passionate individuals or
your look. You can use our ties, bow ties or accessories companies with unique stories to tell you. You will be
to experiment your style. In essence, a true butler is not inspired!
recognized by his uniform but by his personality and
style.
W h y don ’ t you t r a in in a ca st le?

This is the 21st century. Most of our former students

are working in mansions very similar to our estate.
Co m pa r e d t o o t h e r s c h oo l s y o u oFF e r being hungry for knowledge and willing to reach the
a l o t of t h e or y, w h y i s t h i s a n d h ow
do you combine it w it h pr ac t ica l
highest standard in service. We teach you the right
tr aining?
techniques based on our unique curriculum, daily
practice and the interaction with real guests.
Sometimes butlers trained at other schools present their
CV’s to us, seeking for employment. As we interview Based on many years of experience we’re convinced that
them we were surprised they were not aware of even in 8 weeks time you will be highly trained and very able
the most basic etiquette or service knowledge. Therefor to run a household on a high level. Most importantly we
our focus has always been on theory combined with will give you the tools to keep studying even when you
practical training. We had students coming to our school leave the school.
to be trained again, even after completing another butler W h y is you r cu r r icu lu m u niqu e to
school. o t h e r s c h oo l s ?

We combine theory with role-play scenario’s, real life It’s all in the way we combine the information and
guests and many examples. During theory and practical the practical trainings. We have created a cutting edge
training we show you hundreds of photo’s and many system which is an unique blend of information, practical
videos to illustrate and to make it easier to understand. training and smart technology.
Don’t get us wrong! The most part of the training is This allows us to train you faster but without increasing
hands on. But we tailor it to the needs of the modern the intensity of the training. Another secret is that we
family. For example, we train synchronized service but it never stop developing our training. Many butler trainings
is not realistic to think you will have a household where have been teaching the same curriculum for many years.
you have 20 butlers serving at the same time. We feel The world is in constant movement. We keep adding
there are other things equally important. topics and constantly look for trends, we feel you should
I h av e s e e n o n t h e p h o t o s t h a t t h e
be aware of. We are convinced your principal would be
t r a i n i ng is v isua l ly su pp ort ed, w h y ?
impressed when his butler is up to speed on the latest
food trends and luxury items.
Indeed, our training consists of over 3000 slides during
Is t he cou r se r esiden t i a l?
the 8 week training. This gives you a certain structure
throughout the course and it’s a great way to present Yes, you can reserve a private room in our estate.
photo’s and videos. I s t h i s t r a i n i n g p r o g r a m oFFI c i a l l y
Do y o u oFF e r t r a i n i n g s i n o t h e r recognized?
l a nguages t h a n English, w h at a bou t
French for ex a mple? In October 2014 we received recognition by City &
Guilds, London. On top of that we are certified by the
The 8 week training is conducted in English. Since Qfor label by the Belgian Government.
Belgium is a country with officially 3 languages, our
instructors speak at least 3 languages and are there to Ca n I talk to a n y for mer st uden ts?
support people speaking Dutch, French, English and We keep the details of our students confidential since
German. they might be working for principals who care about
T h e c ou r se i s a big i n v e s t m e n t, w h y i s their privacy. Nevertheless we can put in a demand for
that? you to contact them. Upon their approval we’re more
That is mainly due to the length of the training. than happy to provide their details.

Included in the fee is 3 meals a day with unlimited The best way to speak to them is to come and visit the
drinks, coffee breaks with snacks, accommodation (bed school during a training. We are more than happy to give
linen and towels included), documentation, training you a full tour of all our unique features.
materials and a high end 3 piece butler uniform (with Is there an y thing to do in my free
tie, bow tie, waistcoat and cuff links). All other items time?
needed to be our guest for 8 weeks is included as well: The estate is situated near the city of Bruges, Belgium
fully stocked laundry room, transportation, high speed which has been on the Unesco list for many years. This
wifi, office supplies, free use of our Netflix account, and stunning medieval village has some real gems to discover
many more… Of course, not to forget 8 weeks of the most while you stay with us and we suggest you discover it.
complete training around on our amazing estate. You are
basically our guest. On top of that the cities of Ghent, Antwerp or Brussels
are never more than 40 minutes away by car or train.
All transportation to and from field trips are included as Actually there is too much to do…
well, even a 2 day trip to London!
Anyhow, the fee should not be the reason of your final
decision, it should be your feeling you have with our
school, so come visit us!
Is 8 w eek s enough t o become a bu t l er ?

Being a butler is about the will to change your lifestyle.

It is about constantly bringing out the best in yourself,
 DEFINITI O NS / TERMS & C O NDITI O NS

1. DEFINITIONS 4. COURSE MATERIALS AND COPYRIGHT

1) In this contract the following definitions apply; 1) The Course fee includes the cost of all other materials
“Company” means VK consulting, avenue Louise 367, which are supplied before and during the course.
1050 Brussel aka School for Butlers and Hospitality aka 2) SBH is the copyright owner of all course materials
SBH with the exception of materials clearly published by third
“Student” means the individual who is attending a parties. The Company’s copyright materials may only
Course run by the Company. “Training” means teaching be used by the person attending the Course for their
undertaken by the Company. personal use and not be passed onto a Third Party.
“Course” means a period of time where the Company will 3) The course content may vary due to unforeseen
be undertaking training of the Student. circumstances and training venue may change from time
“Relevant Course Fee” means the fee that has been to time.
agreed between the Student and the Company for the
relevant Course. 5. ASSESSMENT AND CERTIFICATES
Costs for accommodation and travel expenses are not 1) Assessment is continuous during all courses and will
included. be conducted by Authorized Personnel of the Company.
“Authorized Personnel of the Company” Includes all Students must reach accepted levels of skills in order to
tutors including personnel employed by SBH and also be awarded the prestigious Certification. The decision
external consultants offering specific training. to award certificates is made by SBH Principal and all
2) Unless the context requires otherwise, references to decisions are final.
the singular include the plural.
3) The headings contained in this Contract are for 6. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
convenience only and do not affect their interpretation. 1) The Company adheres to a strict Equal Opportunities
Policy in the provision of its training.
2. THE CONTRACT
1) These terms and conditions constitute the Contract 7. FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
between the Company and the Student and are deemed 1) The Company does not guarantee to find a Student
to be accepted by receipt of a completed application form work following the provision of training.
together with a deposit of the Relevant Course Fee. 2) If a Student seeks employment and wish to enlist the
services of SBH they must register independently with
3. PAYMENT TERMS / CANCELLATIONS AND Recruitment SBH.
REFUNDS
1) The Relevant Course Fees will be outlined to the 8. LIABILITY
Student and are all inclusive. 1) The Company shall not be liable under any
2) Courses can be residential, however this is not circumstances for any loss, expense, damage, delay,
mandatory. costs or compensation (whether direct, indirect or
3) Full payment of the Relevant Course Fee is required consequential) which may be suffered or incurred by the
to secure a place on a course. Student arising from or in any way connected with the
4) The Relevant Course Fee is payable in full 45 days in Company providing training. For the avoidance of doubt,
advance of Course start date. the Company does not exclude liability for death or
5) Unless the Relevant Course Fee is paid in full 45 personal injury arising from its own negligence.
days in advance of the Course start date, the Company 2) Tea and Coffee as well as biscuits and light lunch
reserves the right to refuse admission to the Course and will be provided on the Course. It is the responsibility
to allocate the place to another person. of the Student to clearly indicate any food allergies or
6) A deposit of 50% is required with enrollment. All special dietary requirements to the Company prior to
amounts paid are non refundable, however they can be the commencement of the Course. The Company cannot
credited towards the next similar course within a year accept any liability for illness as a result of non-disclosure
period from the date of deposit. of this information.
7) Photos of students will appear on our website as well 3) The Company will comply fully with its responsibilities
as TV and other productions will be featured on our of all aspects of Health and Safety legislation.
website which have been taken during the course. Should
a student not wish to have photos or any other production 9. LAW
on SBH website, then this must be in writing before the 1) This contract is governed by the law of Belgium and
course starts. is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of
Belgium.
w w w. s c h o o l f o r b u t l e r s . c o m