Junior catering team members from across Oakland Care recently showcased their talents in a ‘cook off’ contest.
Led and organised by Oakland Care’s development chef Annika James, the contest saw budding chefs tasked with creating two courses which they felt could feature on the provider’s new menu, which will be launched later this year.
The challenge followed a day of dedicated learning and culinary skill progression hosted in partnership with Brakes Development Chef Danny Silcock.
Winning dishes – which were voted as the favourites by a judging panel – including Pan-Fried Seabass with a Lemon Cream Sauce created by Louise Cockerill from Oakland Care’s Elmbrook Court care home in Oxfordshire.
Development chef at Oakland Care, Annika James, said: “It was great to bring some of our junior team members together and to have the opportunity to spend some dedicated learning time with each of them.
“At Oakland Care we are committed to supporting the progression and growth of our team members. The Chef Academy is a key part of this strategy and represents a commitment to investing quality time into our chefs – helping to build their confidence, culinary knowledge, and skillset.
“By doing this we are also able to maintain our promise to residents; providing an outstanding and positive dining experience.”
Irene Muia from Oakland Care’s Woodland Grove care home said: “Thank you for an excellent day. The opportunity to learn, develop, and test my culinary skillset and knowledge was extremely valuable and is of huge credit to Oakland Care and their sustained commitment to supporting the progression of team members.
“I am excited to take this experience forward with me in my role at Oakland Care, with a focus on continuing to grow not only my own ability but also pushing the high standards of catering we set ourselves as a team at the care home.”
