Chef Academy

This workshop develops foundational skills in preparing and cooking meat, poultry, game, and offal. Participants will practise techniques such as breaking down a whole chicken, working with different cuts of meat, and creating balanced dishes that highlight these ingredients. Recipes may include slow-cooked grilled and roasted dishes, alongside accompaniments like breads, rice, and noodles. The session provides a strong foundation for working with these versatile ingredients in a variety of culinary applications.

Focusing on the preparation and cooking of fish and shellfish, this workshop teaches essential techniques such as filleting whole fish and handling shellfish like mussels and prawns. Participants will also learn how to pair these ingredients with sauces, sides, and accompaniments. Practical exercises help build confidence and refine skills applicable to a range of seafood dishes.

This workshop introduces the art of patisserie, covering techniques for creating hot and cold desserts and a variety of pastries. Learners will practise crafting plated desserts and explore both classic and modern pastry recipes. This session focuses on precision and creativity, ensuring participants gain valuable skills for a wide array of patisserie applications.

Dedicated to the essentials of baking, this workshop covers the preparation of breads, scones, and cakes. Participants will explore techniques for making leavened and unleavened bread, as well as methods for achieving consistent results with a variety of fermentation and cooking processes. The session encourages creativity, incorporating ideas for pairing baked goods with complementary dishes.

This workshop focuses on the creation of inclusive and dietary-specific dishes. Participants will work with alternative ingredients to prepare plant-based dishes, gluten-free items, and desserts suitable for diverse dietary needs. The session highlights the importance of versatility in cooking, enabling learners to adapt their skills for a wide range of culinary requirements.

Focuses on sustainable cooking practices, including:

• Use of seasonal, foraged, and low-emission ingredients.
• Theory on carbon footprints, food waste, and sustainable menu design.
• Practical session creating net-zero dishes from a curated larder.
• Integration of AI tools for dish development and presentation.

Focuses on commercial awareness and menu design, including:

• Costing fundamentals and pricing strategies.
• Sector-specific menu planning (e.g. street food, private schools).
• Practical session, covering designing and costing dishes from a fixed larder.
• Use of AI for branding, packaging, and presentation.

Elevate your dessert making skills in this advanced workshop focused on the art of refined patisserie. Learners will explore a variety of classic pastry bases-for example pâte sucrée, sablée, brisée, puff, and choux-using professional production techniques to craft elegant desserts. This session is designed to refine your precision, creativity, and presentation, resulting in beautifully finished plates that showcase technical excellence and culinary flair.

Step into the sweet science of confectionery with this specialist workshop focused on harnessing sugar in its most creative forms. Examples from delicate pastillage and rich caramels to striking sugar decorations, learners will master professional techniques to produce refined, high-quality confectionery creations. This session is perfect for those looking to elevate their skills and bring precision, artistry, and innovation to their sweet treats.

Dive into the rich world of chocolate artistry in this indulgent workshop designed to refine your skills and elevate your creations. Learn how to temper and work with different types of chocolate to achieve flawless texture and shine. Explore the craft of ganaches and a variety of fillings, and discover how to use chocolate as a striking garnish to enhance your plated desserts. This session blends precision with creativity, giving learners the confidence to produce professional-quality chocolate work.

Discover the delicate craft behind some of the most luxurious baked goods in this advanced dough workshop. From flaky croissants and trendy cruffins to rich savarins and buttery brioches, learners will explore the techniques behind laminated and complex doughs. Using professional methods, this session focuses on precision, fermentation, and shaping to produce beautifully textured and flavourful pastries that showcase true baking finesse.

Create desserts that everyone can enjoy in this innovative workshop focused on plant-based and allergen-friendly patisserie. Learn how to craft refined sweet dishes that cater to a range of dietary needs, including gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free variations. Through professional techniques and thoughtful ingredient choices, learners will develop the skills to produce elegant, inclusive desserts without compromising on flavour, texture, or presentation.

Designed for learners aiming to excel in their End-Point Assessment, this workshop focuses on the advanced production, assembly, and finishing of intricate patisserie. You’ll master the creation of entremets and complex gateaux, developing the precision and presentation skills needed to produce refined, multi-component desserts. With a strong emphasis on professional techniques and high-level execution, this session is ideal for building confidence and showcasing your culinary expertise under assessment conditions.