Cooking up a Career

Cooking up a career…

Cory Griffiths has said a big thank-you to ITEC Training after landing his dream job as trainee chef with one of Wales’ top hotels – and he is urging other learners to ‘grab your chance!’

The 17-year-old gained three GCSEs plus BTECs in Sport, ICT and Art at Treorchy Comprehensive and studied construction and maintenance in his first year in the sixth form, but couldn’t settle on a career choice.

After a succession of temporary bar jobs, he had a chat with Careers Wales who recommended he signed on with ITEC, where experienced tutors would help him with focus, direction, confidence and skills advice.

ITEC placement organiser Christine Beach used her contacts to secure Cory work experience among the 25-strong team of chefs in the Hilton Hotel in Cardiff – and the teenager made such an impression they’ve taken him on full-time.

The kitchens of a top city centre hotel, providing gourmet meals and virtually round-the clock catering, under pressure, is not a place for the faint-hearted. The hotel has recently completed a major investment and offers modern Welsh and international cuisine at their Razzi restaurant along with tapas etc in the STEAM bar.

Said Cory “I’ve been interested in cooking from the age of 13. Here at the Hilton it’s a combination of knowledge about different foods, quality and hygiene, preparation techniques and presentational flair – it’s fascinating and I am learning so much from the head chef and others.”  

Cory, one of five brothers, added “If it wasn’t for ITEC, I wouldn’t be here. Chris Beach said to me – ‘grab your chance’ – and that’s what I would say to everyone. When I arrived, the head chef asked me three things – ‘are you reliable, are you committed and do you want to be a chef?’

Chris Beach said “We are very pleased with the way things are working out for Cory. We do everything we can to create opportunities for our learners who want to get on and it is rewarding when they seize the chance.”

Cory was also proud to win the title of Learner of the Month, an ITEC award based on attitude, application and attendance.