"My time at Lewisham College was very important. It gave me the set of skills I needed to develop into the chef I am today. I’d like to say a big thanks to all of my college lecturers."
Former catering student Mark Morris now heads up the kitchen as a Unit Manager for Compass – a major multinational hospitality and catering company – having studied part-time for a string of qualifications at the College.
He says: “I didn’t always know what I wanted to do but I always loved cooking. An old school friend got me a job as a chef and I made the decision to come to Lewisham College to study. The rest is history!”
Mark began a Level 1 programme in Food Preparation and Cooking, and went on to complete his Levels 2 and 3. He also broadened his skills with a number of other qualifications including Supervising Food Safety in Catering, Environmental Management, and Health and Safety for Food Handlers.
Mark’s dedication to learning new skills and adding to his professional qualifications has allowed him to climb from a Demi Chef de Partie to his current role at Compass in just a few years. Now in control of the whole kitchen, his responsibilities are much like those of a head chef, and range from ordering stock to paying staff.
“The greatest challenge is running an understaffed kitchen to the same standards as when I have a full staff,” says Mark. “Overcoming challenges like that are the most enjoyable elements of my job.
Mark now has his sights set on becoming Operations Manager within five years, and would eventually love to run his own business. He adds: “My time at Lewisham College was very important. It gave me the set of skills I needed to develop into the chef I am today. I’d like to say a big thanks to all of my college lecturers.”
