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Hi, my name is Helen and I’m 43. I spent nine months training at The Clink Restaurant in Styal.
Training at The Clink gave me the real working environment knowledge, and experience to complete my training, and achieve success in my NVQ Level 2 in Professional Cookery, building on the skills and knowledge I had previously achieved at Level 1. Since graduating from The Clink, I have successfully achieved a Level 3 Qualification in Professional Cookery at Collegeand every single day I would say that I have used or built on some of the knowledge and values that I gained during my time in the restaurant. Part of my qualification has involved supervising students at a lower level, I am in turn passing that knowledge and those standards down the line and training to be a Teacher and Assessor in Catering and Hospitality.
I have also been successful in gaining employment as Chef de Partie at a Country Club, Hotel and Spa in Lancashire where I ran the Pastry and Larder sections, and also work at large sporting and other hospitality events as a Second Chef, throughout the North West. Every day I am able to enjoy the ability to utilise and build on my training at The Clink. I plan to continue my training and commence study in the Autumn with an NVQ Level 4 in Patisserie and Confectionery alongside my teaching qualification, which will enable me to teach in a couple of years when I have qualified.
A huge benefit of my training with The Clink, aside from the culinary aspects, has been the ongoing support of The Clink’s Mentor and Support Worker Sophie. She has helped with everything I have needed, from organising college courses, obtaining tools and equipment to continue my training, beena friendly listening ear as and when required and a valuable source of information on anything and everything! It has been a massive comfort to have her on my side throughout some very challenging and difficult times. Thank you so much Sophie!
The Clink provides motivation, encouragement and a sense of achievement, to a range of people who may never have been praised or rewarded for achieving success previously. This gives them the encouragement, confidence and positive mental attitude necessary to try to further themselves and succeed, which is part of the life changing experience.
To hear more about Helen’s story, join us on Thursday 8th March from 1-4pm as we celebrate International Women’s Day at The Clink Restaurant in Styal. Hear inspiring stories from Helen and other current Clink learners, enjoy afternoon tea and a mocktail on arrival. Tickets cost £20 (plus booking fee). To book your tickets, please click here.
