The future of top hospitality talent in Cornwall looks brighter than ever with the launch of The Rick Stein Academy, a partnership between the expertise of The Rick Stein Group and Truro and Penwith College, one of the best colleges in the UK.

Coming after seven years of successful partnership between The Rick Stein Group and Truro and Penwith College, during which over 60 apprentices have benefited from the experience of working with the group, the new Academy will inspire, train and develop hospitality professionals in Cornwall.

The Rick Stein Academy will work with young people through school activities, careers events and work experience to inspire and encourage them to develop a career in hospitality. The Academy will also train full time students at Truro and Penwith College as well as apprentices with The Rick Stein Group, developing their knowledge and skills with supplier visits, masterclasses and placements. The partnership will also support individuals to explore employment and further training and progression opportunities with The Rick Stein Group and the college.

Rick Stein explains: “There is no substitute for learning whist working as you quickly develop the skills you need to progress in this fast paced industry. We’re proud to support this Academy and work with those who are passionate about great food and making people smile.”

Launched at Truro College’s Spires restaurant on Monday September 28, the day featured a cookery masterclass by Jack Stein, as well as demonstrations and talks from other Stein chefs including Stephane Delourme, Head Chef at The Seafood Restaurant, Nick Evans, Head Chef at St Petroc’s Bistro and Stuart Pate, Head Pastry Chef. The event also included a fish filleting competition, networking opportunities and the chance to try food cooked by students of The Rick Stein Academy.

Tamsyn Harris, Head of Truro and Penwith College Business, said: “The partnership with The Rick Stein Group means as a college we are providing the best possible training and opportunities for the future talent within the hospitality sector, guided and influenced by their expertise. The partnership has benefitted the training of many people of the last 7 years and The Rick Stein Academy will further this opportunity and the development of skills here in Cornwall”.

Since opening The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow back in 1975, Rick and Jill Stein have grown the business to include ten restaurants, boutique bedrooms, foodie shops and a cookery school - all supported by over 450 passionate people. Investing in The Rick Stein Academy will allow the team to nurture high calibre hospitality professionals to support the continued growth of the business.

The event was well attended and welcomed members of the Chef’s Forum to the college.