Budding Chefs Compete In ‘Cook Off’ As Part Of Oakland Care’s Chef Academy

Junior catering team members from across Oakland Care have had the opportunity to showcase their talents in a competitive ‘cook off’ competition.

The contest, which was led and organised by Oakland Care’s Development Chef, Annika James, took place at the fully fitted training kitchen, Brakes Innovation Kitchen. It saw a group of budding chefs tasked with creating two courses which they felt could feature on the leading care home provider’s new menu which will be launch later this year.

The challenge followed a day of dedicated learning and culinary skill progression, which they were then able to take forward into the competition.

The day was hosted in partnership with Brakes Development Chef, Danny Silcock, who showcased a range of innovative and showstopping meals, as well as how easy it is to elevate simple dishes whilst also reducing wastage.

There were three winning dishes which were voted as the favourites by the judging panel, including the likes of a Pan-Fried Seabass with a Lemon Cream Sauce that was created by Louise Cockerill from Oakland Care’s Elmbrook Court care home in Wantage, Oxfordshire.

Oakland Care’s ‘Chef Day’ was aimed at giving Chefs and Kitchen Assistants across the Oakland Care group a chance to develop and grow in their profession.

Key to their efforts is award-winning Executive Chef, Giles Conroy, who is focused on pushing Oakland Care’s culinary standards and supporting the progression of young, exciting, talent in the industry.

Reflecting on the day, 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.”

Speaking about the 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.”