Coleg Gwent professional cookery learners make a mark at prestigious Chefs' Forum event

Celebrating the launch of the The Chefs’ Knowledge

In a celebration of culinary excellence, last month, our level 2 and level 3 professional cookery learners joined The Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Councilor Bablin Molik, and 100 esteemed guests, at the latest lunch to celebrate the launch of the Chef’s Forum book, The Chefs’ Knowledge.

Coleg Gwent lecturer, professional chef and Great British Menu contestant, Cindy Challoner, joined Justin Llewellyn, Keith Clash and Andrew Minto alongside restauranteurs and suppliers at the prestigious event held at The Coal Exchange Hotel in Cardiff.

The Chef’s Forum Academy

The Chef’s Forum Academy has partnered with educational institutions, like Coleg Gwent, to improve the culinary learning experience for students. The Academy works closely with colleges by inviting renowned industry chefs to carry out masterclasses with learners to teach them cutting-edge techniques and dishes that are being prepared in restaurants.

Engaging with the Academy not only provides learners with opportunities to witness the latest culinary trends but also encourages them to actively engage with the experts to help them gain more knowledge in their chosen field.

Coleg Gwent learners were working at the event, both front of house and in the kitchen. Under the guidance of Coleg Gwent lecturer and seasoned professional chef, Cindy Challoner, the learners, served a menu that left an impression on the attendees.

Starter
Cindy Challoner (Coleg Gwent lecturer and Great British Menu contestant)
Herb crusted Aussie lamb chump, celeriac and puffed pearl barley

Fish course
Justin Llewellyn (The Parkgate Hotel)
Royal Greenland halibut Veronique

Main course
Keith Clash (The Coal Exchange Hotel)
Seared sirloin of Aussie beef, braised beef, Bara brith and Perl Las bonbon, confit potato, butternut squash puree and jus

Dessert
Andrew Minto (Chef Patron at Minto’s Patisserie and Winner of Bake Off: The Professionals 2021)
Autumn apple crumble with salted caramel ice cream

Reflecting on the experience, the learners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with highly skilled chefs.

One learner said: “I have worked some of the events over my level 2 and now level 3 qualification, they are great as you get to work with top chefs and some famous ones as well. It is nerve-wracking when you first get there but the chefs help you and you soon get the hang of things.”

Another learner said: “I hope to work in a top hotel or restaurant in the future and hopefully get a Michelin star”.

Cindy Challoner said: ” I have been a part of The Chef’s Forum for many years, and I often get asked to do events around Wales, ranging from the Welsh game fair to events such as the one at the Coal Exchange.

“The students gain valuable knowledge and experience from doing these events as they get to work alongside a variety of different chefs while gaining industry experience. The students can also often get offered work or placements – which is really exciting.”

If you want to start your career in hospitality, look at the courses we have available.