TAFE NSW is supporting Western Sydney’s hospitality scene to thrive, investing in the next generation of chefs through their in-demand apprenticeships.

With demand for chefs expected to increase by 14 per cent over the next five years in Sydney’s Outer West and Blue Mountains, TAFE NSW is delivering a pipeline of skilled workers to bolster the regions growing dining and bar scene.

According to research, many Western Sydney suburbs have seen double-digit annual growth in spending on dining and bars, making it a burgeoning hospitality industry and ideal training ground for apprentices.

TAFE NSW is supporting the region’s industry growth through hands on training and industry connections, connecting students with top tier apprenticeships.

TAFE NSW alum, and owner of three thriving Western Sydney hospitality venues, Rod Parberry uses his establishments as training ground for TAFE NSW commercial cookery apprentices.

Rod studied Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW Kingswood and now runs three successful venues around Penrith: Mr Watkins, Elton Chong, and Harry Hartog’s Cafe.

Rod credits TAFE NSW with equipping him with the skills and confidence to build a career in hospitality, after completing his Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at TAFE NSW Kingswood.

“I changed careers from project management at 27 years old. Coming home from a long day at work and cooking was what made me happy, so I knew I had to pursue it. Studying at TAFE NSW opened up that career to me, and I have never looked back,” said Rod.

Going from learning the ropes as an apprentice, to now running three successful establishments in Western Sydney, Rod wants to give back to the industry by giving TAFE NSW apprentices a place to learn the trade.

“I want to provide apprentices with training and career pathways. I know TAFE NSW is the best way to develop your knowledge and hands-on skills, so I look for students with a genuine passion for the kitchen.”

Rod currently employees three TAFE NSW Commercial Cookery apprentices at his venue Mr Watkins and has employed 10 TAFE NSW apprentices since the venue first opened six years ago.

With over 160,000 small businesses currently operating throughout Western Sydney, including hospitality venues, hiring apprentices can give small businesses a leg up.

“Hiring apprentices from TAFE NSW means they already have all the foundational skills and know their way around a kitchen. It’s a win-win situation: the business owners get high quality apprentices who can hit the ground running, and the apprentices get valuable workplace training,” said Rod.

Andrew McLennan is a studying his Certificate III in Commercial Cookery and completing his apprenticeship at Mr Watkins.

“It’s inspiring to see someone who was once a student like me now run successful venues and keep them local in Western Sydney," said Andrew.

“Between my study and my apprenticeship, I know I am getting the best possible training. I am excited to see where my career takes me,” said Andrew.

Allan Clarke, TAFE NSW Head Teacher Tourism and Hospitality in Western Sydney, is proud to see TAFE NSW students achieving success.

“Having former TAFE NSW students go on to mentor the next generation is very inspiring,” said Allan.

“We seek to equip our students with the training and industry guidance to succeed in this competitive industry. Studying Commercial Cookery with TAFE NSW is the first step towards building a dynamic and lasting career, like we have seen with Rod.”