Member Article

Oldfields chefs go back to school

Oldfields Restaurants are sending four chefs to the award-winning ‘chef academy’ at Newcastle College. The young chefs will all be expanding their skills with a one-year Modern Apprenticeship, equivalent to NVQ Level 3. The course combines on-the-job practical training in the Jesmond and Durham Restaurants with theoretical study. They’ll pick up techniques such as menu design, creation of signature dishes and food hygiene as well as learning about the importance of local and seasonal ingredients.

Ken Thompson, Hospitality Section Leader at Newcastle College said: “It’s a fact that gaining qualifications reduces labour turnover. I wish more employers were willing to invest in their workforce then we could start to address the skills shortage within the catering industry. “The opportunities are fantastic yet the perception of poor working conditions, long hours and no career prospects seems to stick.”

All front of house staff have also benefited from sessions with Dutch motivational expert Floor Petersen of Changes International. He teaches the art of reading body language, voice training and customer service techniques.

Mike Jameson, Oldfields Chef Director, said: “As any company will tell you, employees are the linchpin of the business. “We’re passionate about our food and service so it goes without saying we’re passionate about our staff. “Every night before serving, we have a team briefing. This includes training, incentives, rewards, raffles – even games of Twister! Anything that encourages our staff to be the best they can.”

For more information visit www.oldfieldsrestaurants.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .