Calling all budding young chefs to apply for course at college

Aspiring young chefs in West Suffolk are invited to apply for a six-week Junior Chef Programme at West Suffolk College.

West Suffolk Council and the college are working together to deliver this exciting opportunity after securing £10,000 funding from VENI, to continue the Choose Hospitality partnership project.

The Visitor Economy Network Initiative (VENI) is a collaboration between educators and industry to deliver skills, support, and career opportunities for the visitor economy of the region, while simultaneously raising awareness and challenging perceptions.

VENI was Formed in 2021 and is overseen by the Eastern Education Group and Visit East of England.

This will enable 10 students to access the Junior Chef Programme beginning in January for half price.

The course offers a fantastic opportunity to cook up a storm each week, learning new skills, techniques and recipes in a professional commercial kitchen.

Those participating could discover a future career path, or simply use their new knowledge to show off at home to family and friends.

In each session, they will be cooking from scratch with fresh ingredients. In the final week, the chefs will cook and serve a two-course meal to up to four of their own invited guests.

Running from Saturday, January 11, to Saturday, February 15, the course will take place each Saturday morning from 9.15am to 12.15pm.

To find out more and to sign up for the Future Chefs Programme, click here. 

Indy Wijenayaka, cabinet member for Growth at West Suffolk Council, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to inspire young people to develop their passion for cooking while exploring exciting career pathways in the hospitality sector.

“It not only boosts their confidence but also equips them with essential skills for the workplace. I am thrilled to continue partnering with the college, building on the incredible success of previous Future Chef courses.”

Claire Waterson, operations manager in the Culinary Arts Academy at West Suffolk College, added; “This programme is an incredible opportunity for young people to ignite their passion for cooking while developing essential skills in a professional kitchen environment.

“We’re proud to inspire the next generation of chefs and showcase the vibrant career paths available in the hospitality industry.”

There will be an Intermediate Junior Chef course running in March that will also be available for half price (£175) and Choose Hospitality will also be delivering opportunities for unemployed adults to gain skills in the hospitality industry in spring 2025, more information will be announced in the new year.