MCHS PUPILS
“Wednesday 7th of March two of our Mearns Castle pupils and three members of staff attended the ERC Professional Cookery Banquet held in Carmichael Hall. Alex Roy (S5) was involved due to taking part in the Professional Cookery Vocational course at College offered by ERC to try and give pupils real life work employability skills as ERC strives to develop our young workforce. Alex achieved N5 Hospitality – Practical Cookery qualifications last year and was keen to build on his skill set using the Vocational Option. Alex attends the college weekly to complete this qualification. Thomas Letts (S4) was recommended to attend as a promising Hospitality – Practical Cookery pupil. The boys were planned to attend Encroute for two days training, although due to snow only managed one. This is where they learned the dishes needed for the event and enjoyed working as part of a team, trained by experienced College staff.
As the pictures show, the meal was a top end, fine dining experience with three well thought out courses creating an exciting menu which both our pupils along with other pupils from ERC schools helped design and deliver.
Beetroot Cured Salmon, Pickled Fennel, Confit Orange & Quail egg followed by, Chicken, Proscuitto & Sun dried Tomato Ballotine, Duchess Potato, Heritage Carrots, Tarragon Jus followed by Spiced Plum Frangipani Tart, Plum Gel, Almond Tuile.
On the night pupils were split into two teams: kitchen who prepared and cooked the food, Front of House who hosted the evening. Alex and Thomas were in the kitchen brigade.
Both boys did the school proud and are photographed with their certificates.
Additionally Thomas was announced the winner of the Encroute Catering Prize for best school pupil during the event. The boys had a great experience and loved every minute of it. Working as part of a team, whilst being creative and reaping the rewards of over 100 people enjoying their foods.
Massive well done Alex and Thomas.
Anybody interested in Vocational – Professional Cookery next year make sure to see your Pupil Support teacher of Food, Health Technology staff ASAP for details.”
