Electrolux teams up with Michelin-starred kitchens to launch new Chef Academy
Professional and domestic appliances manufacturer Electrolux has launched a new nationwide competition to find the next generation of inspirational chefs that will provide an extraordinary work experience opportunity.
The inaugural Electrolux Chef Academy 2013 is working alongside catering colleges around the UK to find three, year three students to win a place on a 12-month paid programme in some of the country's top Michelin star restaurants.
The prize includes three, four-month rotational placements for the final three successful students (funded and including accommodation) with industry chefs Tom Kitchin, Simon Hulstone and Jonray and Peter Sanchez-Iglesias.
Simon Hulstone, chef patron of the Elephant in Torquay, attending the launch event this morning at Westminster Kingsway, London, said: "This is one of the best competitions I have seen in a long while."
Mentor and judge Nigel Howarth, chef patron at Northcote Manor, Lancashire, said: "In my role as mentor to the winners, I will keep an eye on the chefs, stay in touch with them during their placements and help them enjoy the whole experience."
The students will be asked to apply in writing accompanied by an endorsement by their college lecturers. It was stressed that the successful students will need to have shown determination and a real hunger to participate in the prize, and have the personality to work in a high-pressured kitchen.
Vanessa Holloway, trade marketing manager for Electrolux, said: "Electrolux has been proudly supporting professional kitchens for nearly a century, with almost 50% of Michelin star restaurants in Europe using our appliances. It therefore seemed a natural step to support the next generation of chefs at an even earlier stage.
"Through our partnerships with incredibly talented chefs, we're extremely well placed to establish the Chef Academy programme, giving young chefs a fantastic insight into a highly competitive yet exhilarating industry".
The event hosted at Westminster Kingsway College was opened by Geoff Booth, assistant principal, who commented that: "Gaining valuable work experience is essential to all culinary students in helping them to realise their ambitions after leaving college.
"The Electrolux initiative is an exceptional opportunity and presents a unique and innovative way of recognising exceptional talent. This competition provides an incredible opportunity for a small number of outstanding students. It will undoubtedly also help to inspire countless others across the hospitality sector."
Applications open today, to find out more information visit facebook.com/Electrolux. - The closing date for entries is 21 April 2013.
