Changing careers

Question

I'm 35 and have worked for 15 years in IT, but now I want to be a chef. I've always loved to cook and have developed my own skills, rather informally, of course. I want to work in a small to medium-size restaurant, preferably not in a chain.

Do you think I should do an NVQ2 course? And how can I find out if any companies will sponsor me?

What the expert says

Lesley Reynolds, managing director, Portfolio International

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First, you need to think about the financial implications. Can you really sustain the lifestyle you are used to by working as a commis chef on a low salary of possibly around £8,000-£10,000? You would probably be earning this salary for a minimum of four to five years. Second, there are the social implications. Can you cope with working unsociable and long hours? If the answer to both is yes, an NVQ2 is a great idea. Make sure that you achieve this by working in the type of property you want to work for in the long term. The level you train at will dictate where you can work in the future. Sponsorship is a tricky question. With the current skills shortage at junior level, employers are more open to this suggestion. My advice would be to apply directly to the kind of businesses you are interested in working for.