From menu creation to running the kitchen, Bathurst resident, Gemma England has her career cooked to perfection, thanks to the skills and expertise she has learnt at TAFE NSW and on-the-job at Country Coffee. 

After working in hospitality for a number of years, Ms England was given the opportunity by her employer to complete an apprenticeship to become a chef and study a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW. Since completing her apprenticeship she’s now cooking up a storm as the head chef at the popular cafe.  

Country Coffee Manager, Jane Issa said Gemma is a wonderful asset to the business who has grown into a confident head chef. 

“By studying at TAFE NSW Gemma’s practical skills have improved significantly and she is now able to comfortably lead the team,” Ms Issa said. 

“When hiring staff, we look favourably upon applicants who have studied hospitality or commercial cookery courses at TAFE NSW as they have strong background knowledge of the industry and are ready to hit the ground running.” 

Ms England said she really enjoyed working in the TAFE NSW Orange training restaurant as it allowed her to develop her hands-on skills in preparing an a la carte menu, budgeting, leading a team and rostering.  

“I’m looking forward to implementing the menu I created for the TAFE NSW Orange training restaurant for an event at Country Coffee for customers to enjoy,” Ms England said. 

“I really loved studying at TAFE NSW as the teachers pushed us to be the best that we could be and were very supportive along the way. 

“I’d encourage others who are passionate about becoming a chef or looking to take the next step in their career in hospitality to study at TAFE NSW.” 

The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is available for students to learn hands-on skills at TAFE NSW Bathurst and Orange. 

For more information on commercial cookery and hospitality courses, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601. 

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist