Presentation of Junior Chefs' Academy Graduation

The ceremony, held at The Bournemouth and Poole College, was the culmination of a 10 week practical programme designed to encourage young people into the industry. Nick Vadis, UK executive chef, Compass Group UK & Ireland and Bob Brown, a member of their Competition Culinary Team travelled from London to undertake the presentations. Nick explained: "We are very proud to be associated with this programme that enables young people to gain some life skills and to start to understand food." One parent commented on how the programme has benefited his/her child: "My son wants to open a restaurant and all his options at school are now focussed on that." Sponsored by Compass Catering, Whitbread and Russum Uniforms, this national programme is supported by City and Guilds, the Hospitality Association and the Craft Guild of Chefs. The Department of Hospitality and Catering was awarded as a Centre of Excellence by the Learning Skills Council four years ago and, in addition, has now been given the status of National Skills Academy by People 1st, the Sector Skills Council for Hospitality and Catering. Children looking to join the next programme (which starts 27 September) or for further details, can contact Gill Cooke on 01202 205831.