Two Cumbrian schools will stage a series of kitchen takeovers at a prestigious Lake District hotel this month as part of the Head Chef's drive to inspire a new generation into the hospitality industry, according to an article published by HospitalityandCateringNews.com.
The three groups of Year 10 GCSE catering students from Dowdales School and Ulverston Victoria High will take part in a series of sessions held at the Lakeside Hotel and Spa to gain a unique insight into the world of a four star hotel. Head Chef Richard Booth has further demonstrated his passion for nurturing new talent by inviting the 14 year olds to experience what life is really like behind the scenes of the hospitality industry. The sessions will provide the students with the opportunity to learn about various elements of the business, such as how to lay a table to silver service standard, as well as create a dessert and main dish under the supervision of the expert eye of his 2AA rosette awarded team.
The past few years have seen many a top chef speak out about the issue of the chef shortage here in the UK. Towards the end of last year, an article published on The Guardian website featured chefs blaming unrealistic cooking shows and abusive kitchen cultures for driving away gifted young chefs. The article also highlighted that this skills shortage could even be set to affect the originality and creativity of the restaurants we have in this country.
Booth's dedication to inspiring fresh, young talent into the hospitality and catering profession is a great contribution to the industry. His passion for the cause saw him recently take on the role as judge at Cumbria's Young Chef of the Year competition.
Booth commented: "There just aren't enough young people coming into the industry, so I see these kitchen takeovers as important for encouraging new talent and giving students a better understanding of what a job in catering is really all about."
The first kitchen takeover session was held on Monday 8 February with the next scheduled for Monday 22 and Tuesday 23.
