Talented chocolatier Ollie Meyer is celebrating sweet success after launching his own business creating bespoke made-to-order chocolate treats.
Ollie, 29 from Jesmond in Newcastle, launched his business House of M while studying Gateshead College’s specialist Level 3 Patisserie and Confectionary course, which he is due to finish this summer.
As well as crafting a range of exclusive chocolates for his customers, Ollie has joined forces with Café 1901 to sell his chocolate creations from the popular Jesmond-based eatery.
Ollie said: “I have always enjoyed a challenge and crafting chocolate is something which requires practice and skill. I enrolled at the college to gain a professional qualification as well as essential experience to launch my career and business.
“I have been able to turn my passion and interest into something which will provide me with a wealth of career opportunities thanks to the guidance I have been given by the teachers at the college.”
Ollie, who has worked in catering for over a decade, continued: “Demand from customers has been high, especially during times of celebration like Easter, Christmas, Father’s Day and Valentine’s Day. I love creating special batches of chocolates that are exactly what people want and the opportunity to be creative is exciting and provides a lot of variety in my work.”
Ollie is one of many Gateshead College students to secure a successful future following his studies, with the latest data showing 95 per cent of students moving on to work, university or apprenticeships after completing their studies.
Some catering students have secured jobs at the The Ritz London, while others have launched their own businesses or started careers with leading restaurants including Café 21, Newcastle Marriott Hotel and Linthwaite House Hotel in the Lake District.
The Level 3 Patisserie and Confectionary course guides students through hot and cold deserts, pastry, sugar crafts, desert fillings and centre pieces. It also helps students to develop their professional experience through organising all aspects of an annual charity event, including the service, entertainment and catering. And as the event puts students in touch with some of the region’s key catering contacts, it gives them an opportunity to network with future employers.
Judith Doyle, principal and chief executive of Gateshead College, said: “Ollie is a shining example of how hard work wins. His determination, passion and focus has led not only to him doing well in his studies and gaining a job within the industry, it has also allowed him to launch his own business doing what he loves.
“I feel extremely proud to see so many of our students move on to work, apprenticeships, higher education or to start their own business. Their success is testament to a committed team of staff at Gateshead College who are working with industry to equip our students with the skills, experience and real world skills that give them the edge.”
To find out more about Gateshead College and the catering and hospitality courses on offer, visit www.gateshead.ac.uk.