The Chef's Forum launches in Bristol
On 23rd January, our very own Josh Eggleton joined Chris Wicks (Chef Owner of the famous Bell’s Diner & Executive Chef Berwick Lodge) to lead top chefs from Bristol in joining forces with local catering colleges to back a new Chefs’ Forum. This launched with a ‘meeting of minds’ from industry and education on the 23rd Jan at Berwick Lodge luxury boutique hotel.
Catherine Farinha, event organiser and Forum Coordinator stated:
“The Chefs Forum launch opened up the communication channels between the catering industry and education and suppliers – a need that was established through talking to all three groups – it was great to see all three interacting so well”
The Forum is made up of chefs whose professional expertise has been recognised in the acquisition of prestigious foodie accolades from Michelin Stars, AA Rosettes to Good Food Guide cooking scores.
Committee member Chris Wicks said:
“The invitation-only Chefs Forum is very positive for our kitchens and education alike and is something towards which both chefs and students can strive. I am delighted to be part of it.”
College students will be invited to attend quarterly meetings with the chefs as a reward for demonstrating great promise and dedication.
The Forum will provides a facility for our great local chefs to share their knowledge and experience. The aim is to inspire and coach young catering students from City of Bristol College, Weston-super-Mare College and St Katherine’s VI Form.
All three institutions were represented at The Chefs’ Forum launch last Monday. Adrian Kirikmaa, Restaurant and Chef Manager at City of Bristol College said:
“We are in the throws of a recession where moral is at an all time low. It is important that our students know that there is a job at the end of their studies and hard work and dedication will pay off – I am delighted with the positive reaction of the chefs and their willingness to get involved in The Chefs’ Forum.”
The Chefs’ Forum will keep chefs informed on what’s going on in the colleges including details of any competitions and events in which students are involved. They will also be able to use The Chefs’ Forum website to source apprentices and work experience candidates through the scheme.
Chefs will swap time in each others kitchens and enjoy guest speeches at future forums from experts on specialist subjects like organics, sous vide and food & wine pairing.
Quality local producers and suppliers will be invited to sample their wares at the forum to support the use of their products in our restaurants to boost the local economy. These producers will also offer work experience and field trips to young chefs so they can trace to source the ingredients they use.
Our very own Josh Eggleton started at the City of Bristol College and went on to win his first Michelin star at the age of 27. Speaking at the launch, Josh said:
“The Chefs’ Forum is a great way of bringing together chefs and suppliers, whether educational or trade. This makes life easier for everyone involved as chefs’ long hours make free time precious.
The Chefs’ Forum website one-stop information shop will definitely help us in our everyday work. It’s great to know that we have a ready source of apprentices who are keen to learn and special discounted rates from trade suppliers”.
The Chefs’ Forum is sponsored by Bristol Audi, Total Produce, Brian Wogan Coffee, The Clifton Range, Robert Welch and Bristol Buffalo Farm Shop.