LEISURE operator Cairn Group is harnessing its commitment to developing its workforce with the launch of a series of culinary inspiration masterclasses.
Forming part of its own national training programme Cairn Academy, and led by the operator’s group executive chef Rodney Jones, the sessions will bring together chefs from across the company to enhance their knowledge and skills.
On top of internal training, keen cooks will have the chance to work in a selection of different kitchens to broaden their experience, as well as take part in educational trips.
These will include a foraging expedition in the Scottish Borders, ‘farm to fork’ farm visits, butchery masterclasses, production demonstrations and fine dining in London. After each stage the chefs will reflect on what they have learnt leading to ‘The Finale’, which will see them design and deliver the menus at Cairn Group’s annual Leadership Conference early in 2019.
Pioneered to grow the next generation of culinary talent in the hospitality industry, additional learnings will range from exposure to all areas of the discipline, from cookery skills, understanding ingredients and health and safety procedures, to market trends and seasonality.
An introduction to the series saw chefs at all stages in their careers take part in a masterclass, focusing on classic French sauces, beef cuts and slow cooking winter classics.
Richard Adams, HR director at Cairn Group, said: “The diversity of this masterclass programme will allow our chefs to gain an insight into all areas of cookery, through an exciting calendar of visits and training sessions, whilst learning on the job from experienced peers.
“Chefs are an integral ingredient within the business and those enrolled in Cairn Academy will be working towards achieving a widely recognised qualification, which we hope will encourage more people to take up careers in the hospitality industry.”
Cairn Academy launched in October last year to facilitate apprenticeship and development opportunities across Cairn Group’s UK-wide hotel portfolio.
For more information on Cairn Group visit www.cairnhotelgroup.com or call 0191 272 5788.