Development

Here we refer to Professional Development Training (CPD) and Personal Development Programmes, rather than Development Chefs. The latter includes a variety of disciplines such as; scientific, engineering, manufacturing, brand marketing and advertising campaigns for commercial purposes. It’s work on the creative edge, specialising in new dishes and innovation. Candidates interested in this type of work would first need to follow a pathway and acquire the qualifications and experience of a Head Chef before applying for such a role. The former two types pull-in a diverse and cosmopolitan group of leaners to the Academy, which is always beneficial to the learning environment, shared experience, atmosphere and outcomes.

There are two main formats; 1. Higher Education via qualifications (such as, Bronze Award Level 2 or Gold Diploma Level 4), and 2. Further Learning Modules via skills courses (such as, The Digital Chef™, Foundation Skills, Intermediate Skills, Advanced Skills).

The majority of learners in this category fall into that of existing professionals, although does also include tentative-feeling potential career changers, looking for that succinct litmus paper experience. Another influx is Yacht Chefs, who by default spend an extraordinary amount of time with a remotely based and small circle of people – they are often looking for inspiration, to absorb new techniques and additional contacts. The Further Learning Modules mentioned above are a great place to start, as they are deliberately concise, bite-sized and more affordable, requiring less commitment, in comparison, to that of a Diploma course of 16 weeks. So, in summary, if you are looking for qualification credits, a new direction, a skills top-up, to broaden your network, expedite promotion or prospects or pure unadulterated inspiration, then Professional Development could be a pathway for you to consider as a genuine springboard?

There is often nothing commercial about this group, although there have been many converts over the years! Personal development is a tailored programme to the enjoyment of the enthusiast, with all the hallmarks and quality of professional practices and techniques. Personal Development fuels a passion but also equips the learner with a useful culinary skill set, to last a lifetime. There are options to align with underpinning qualifications which require practical assessments or more simplistically partake just a progressive skills programme.

This category are brave and adventurous. Developing culinary skills for a healthier life may be on a bucket list. Or perhaps, it’s been a lifelong goal to cook professionally as an amateur. There is often an enduring interest and craving to get in a professional kitchen and try-it-out. Some have had very good careers or businesses and never found a portion of time for themselves to delve into the richness of professional cookery. The other not so insignificant group of sign-ups are those seeking life skills. Those committed to a productive GAP year. International students looking for enrichment. Duke of Edinburgh students looking for activities. A toolbox of culinary skills and knowledge is a profound advantage at University, as a young adult and later when entertaining friends, cooking for family or enjoying a healthy retirement.