Michael Caines

Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines launches new college academy

9th May 2011, 4:20pm

Budding head chefs and those aspiring to a career in front of house now have the opportunity to learn from one of the industry's best.

The new Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College, in partnership with City & Guilds and Exeter College, will mix challenging practical and theoretical workshops with high profile experiences and masterclasses from leading chefs to promote excellence in hospitality and catering.

Designed to nurture the future generation of talented UK restaurateurs, chefs and food service personnel, the selection process at the end of the June will see just 16 applicants, aged between 16 and 19 years, invited to join the Academy – eight front of house and eight chefs.

They will then commence the two-year full-time course in September, and will be given the opportunity to work their way up the flagship City & Guilds Level 3 Diplomas in Advanced Professional Cookery or Food and Beverage Service Supervision. They will also take part in further full time courses beyond the initial two years, potentially leading to a Level 4 City & Guilds qualification.

In year two, students can expect to enter industry competitions, visit leading trade shows and experience work in the country's leading hotels and restaurants including Gidleigh Park.

A number of leading businesses are already involved but the Academy are proactively encouraging more to take part, as Michael Caines MBE explained: "Our hospitality industry and colleges have to work together to develop the right learning skills. The Academy is doing just this by working in partnership with some of the best restaurants, pubs, caterers and hotels within our region and beyond to develop our students and to provide them with long term employment via an apprenticeship or through direct placement.

"We need to ensure that we continue to offer excellence in all we do if we are to maintain this important South West industry as a first choice for the consumer and as an employer alike. To achieve this we need to invest in our future, therefore our youth. Get involved!"

Designing vocational qualifications delivered by colleges, training providers and employers, City & Guilds are working closely with Michael and Exeter College to develop the best combination of qualifications and units to underpin the Academy's training.

Related Articles:

• 26 Apr 2011 - Michael Caines heads chef line up at Bolton Food and Drink Festival
• 24 Nov 2010 - TV chef Michael Caines among those added to People 1st council
• 09 Sep 2010 - Chef Michael Caines launches search for next hospitality star
• 19 Aug 2010 - 'End the macho culture in kitchens' says chef Michael Caines
• 12 Aug 2010 - Michael Caines launches Women 1st chef development scheme today
• 16 Feb 2010 - Chef Michael Caines supports Cusco Appeal
• 22 Jan 2010 - Gidleigh Park voted best restaurant in Top 100 list

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