Cookery apprentice, Corey Elliott, is getting a taste for success now he’s made it through to the finals for the Apprentice of the Year title in the Chesterfield Food and Drinks Awards.
The 18-year-old, who works at The Lilypad Café and Restaurant in Chesterfield’s town centre, is one of three young people in the running for the title, which will be announced on 31 October.
The awards ceremony, organised annually by Destination Chesterfield, sets out to recognise the contributions made by those working in the food and drink scene to put the town on the map.
It was Corey’s commitment to his job that prompted his bosses to put him forward for the title. Ryan Purrington, head chef at The Lilypad, explained: “We have seen Corey steadily develop since joining us and he has become an essential part of our team. He puts so much into his job and you can tell instantly that he enjoys his work. It’s more than just a job to him.”
As a Learning Unlimited apprentice, Corey has learned skills through a combination of on the job training and a day release course at Chesterfield College, where he has learned skills specific to his role at the town centre café. He’s now coming to the end of his Level 3 Professional Cookery apprenticeship and on completion faces a permanent role with the café and restaurant.
Added Corey: “This is perfect for me. Cooking is my passion and I’ve always wanted to work in the industry. I originally joined the team as a pot-washer in the kitchens so when I was offered an apprenticeship at The Lilypad I jumped at the chance.
“I love working here and it was a great chance to learn while working. It meant that I could learn practical skills and put those skills into practice as soon as I got back to work. I’ve learned all about the catering industry much more quickly by doing an apprenticeship and love that I am constantly learning new things.”
We wish Corey lots of luck at the Chesterfield Food and Drinks Awards!