Colin Sayers, Seasoned’s managing partner, said: “We at Seasoned are proud to be working with Barking & Dagenham College to help students achieve their potential.
“Given the shortage of skilled workers coming into the catering industry, we are offering this opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience in the workplace and also develop specialist skills in desired areas that will benefit the industry in the long term.
“With Seasoned having over 30 years’ experience in the events and hospitality catering industry and Chris a natural teacher who also has many years of experience under his belt, the students are in excellent hands!”
The junior chefs will receive one-on-one training from head chef Chris Hawkins at the Seasoned central production unit (CPU) in Essex. Each student will need to complete 30 hours of work experience in order to pass their course.
Within their 30 hours of work experience the students will have the chance to create canapés, starters, main courses and desserts. They will learn about allergens, health and safety processes, and special cooking techniques.