Mary Girling, 24, who works at St. John’s College, was named Professional Apprentice Chef of the Year at Westminster Kingsway College which she has attended for day release over the past three years.
Mary took an early interest in cookery – particularly pastry – as her Mum was always making cakes in the kitchen when she was little. At school she studied Food Technology and her passion for cooking really took off.
Having attended Westminster Kingsway College for three years, Mary now plans to expand her knowledge and skills by specialising in patisserie and confectionery – with the ambition to open her own cake shop in Cambridge one day!
Mary says: “To achieve this award meant being completely dedicated and I really pushed myself with both my practical and theory. After all the late nights, commuting, sweat and tears it has paid off and when I heard about the award, it was a really proud moment – and for my family too. St John’s is a fantastic place to work and I’d like to thank the team and also the staff at Westminster who have given me such encouragement and support to build my career.
Bill Brogan, Conference and Catering Manager added: “Mary truly deserved the recognition she has received for her achievements and it has been very rewarding to see her progress over the last few years. She is a great example to other apprentices of what is possible and I am glad that the College kitchen has played such an important part in her award.”
Image: Celebrating Mary’s success, left to right: Andrew Breacker, Sous Chef; Bill Brogan, Conference and Catering Manager; Mary Girling, Apprentice Chef; and Kevin Doughty, Pastry Chef.
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Further press information from: Lesley Crosland at Crosland Communications on 01638 662188 Email: info@croslandcomms.co.uk
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