Alisha Bryan

What are your current job roles and responsibilities….?

As a Chef Apprentice at University College School my roles and responsibilities have changed according to my progression and capability.  When I started I was on the prep section, where I was responsible for the preparation of the food for the following day. The key duties entailed specific cuts of vegetables and quantities for dishes. I was then moved up to the pastry section where I am responsible for the preparation of bread, soup, vegetables of the day and assisting the head chef to prepare food for service. This section I find to be more demanding as there is a lot more going on and you need to be a great deal more prompt and organised.

What have been the main benefits you have gained from your apprenticeship programme…..?

Prior to employment as a chef apprentice at Brookwood I have always known that I wanted to get involved in the catering industry therefore I took the appropriate steps towards entering the industry. I completed my food hygiene course and immediately applied for catering positions from bar work to inside the kitchen. The Brookwood Partnership received my details through the company I achieved my food hygiene certificate with and offered me the Apprenticeship post. Attaining the Chef Apprentice position for me was a very fulfilling accomplishment in my progressive goals as it marked a step in the right direction for my intended overall goals.

As a Chef Apprentice at Brookwood I have benefited by receiving practical learning from Straight A Training, who support and mentor me with my Apprenticeship programme and learning a trade I enjoy and can see a real future in. My natural ability and skills have been enhanced through training and knowledge.  I have received immense support from my colleagues at University College School.  I am very proud of my progress as an Apprentice with Brookwood. I feel that my confidence in the kitchen has grown and my knowledge of the operation inside and outside of the kitchen has increased;  from health and safety to food hygiene and the operation of a successful smooth service to front of house. I also benefit from advanced training and experience at the after school events and functions where the catering is a lot more delicate and the standard is more demanding and of higher quality. I appreciate and enjoy the opportunities to be involved in these functions enormously.