The Chef Academy aims to support people with their development and career prospects as well as nurture Aria’s own homegrown culinary talent. The apprenticeship is open to people of all ages, it offers nationally recognised qualifications and the opportunity to learn more about the hospitality industry.
James Clear, director of hospitality at Aria Care, said: “Every day is a learning day as a chef. The masterclasses are hands-on courses which not only have all the candidates learning together and encouraging each other, but also gives them the opportunity to witness the skills of our experienced chef trainers first hand.
“Food and drink is really important for social interaction and comfort, but we know there’s still a big stigma around care home food. We provide ‘hospitality from the heart’ with a nutrition and hydration framework which is shared with all of our homes.”
Five apprentices have already attended two masterclasses. The first took place at Billingsgate Market in October, which also marked the official launch of the Chef Academy. The second masterclass took place on Thursday 8th February 2024.
Tom Withers-Ryan, second chef at Aria Care’s Ivy Court Care Home in Norwich, added: “The Aria Care chef academy seemed like the logical choice to support me in my journey towards a future head chef role.
“My favourite part of the programme is the masterclasses; these practical days are great as I can use the skills I have learnt every day in my role, while developing my knowledge of working in a kitchen and my understanding of food preparation.”