From Catering at College to Working with Michael Caines at Lympstone Manor

Through a recent interview with Kate Jary, a successful Pastry Chef at Lympstone Manor under the mentorship of a two-Michelin star chef, Michael Caine, we uncovered the transformative impact of our Catering courses.

Set on the banks of the Exe Estuary, Lympstone Manor is a luxurious country house hotel with style, sprawling vineyards and a stellar culinary reputation, reflective of chef and owner Michael Caines’ Michelin-starred standards.

Kate reflected on her journey through the Catering course she studied. She attributes her success to the invaluable skills and experiences gained during her time at the College.

During her interview, Kate emphasised the skills she acquired through the course. She highlighted the importance of communication, time management, and knife skills, which are crucial pillars in the culinary world. Moreover, the program refined her cooking abilities, providing her with a solid foundation to thrive in the industry.

Peterborough College didn’t just impart theoretical knowledge; it paved the way for Kate’s professional career. The program facilitated networking opportunities like interactions with renowned establishments like the Royal Automobile Club (RAC). These connections, combined with the practical knowledge gained, equipped Kate with the “much-needed confidence” and know-how to embark on her culinary journey.

Kate’s advice for prospective students echoes the sentiment of many successful chefs: embrace learning, heed advice, and persevere. She emphasises the significance of absorbing the wisdom shared by mentors and instructors, citing memorable phrases like “Skin side on the inside,” which encapsulate the practical insights seasoned professionals offer.

Kate’s journey culminated in her current role as a pastry chef at Lympstone Manor, working alongside the esteemed Michael Caine.

Michael Caines MBE, the chef/patron of Lympstone Manor, is one of Britain’s most popular and well-known chefs. The holder of two Michelin stars for 18 consecutive years, he is now delighted to have been awarded a Michelin star for Lympstone Manor just six months after opening. Over the past 22 years, Michael has gained a global reputation for his distinctive modern European cuisine utilising the finest local and regional produce and ingredients.

Michael has appeared regularly on television, on programmes such as BBC 1 Saturday Kitchen, Masterchef, Sunday Brunch, The Great British Menu, My Kitchen Rules, and The Great British Bake-off Extra Slice. Amongst numerous accolades, he cooked in 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister, received an MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry, and was awarded AA Chef’s Chef of the Year in 2007.

The success story of Kate Jary exemplifies the transformative power of the Catering and Hospitality courses at Peterborough College. Through a blend of practical skills, industry connections, and unwavering dedication, students like Kate emerge as culinary leaders, poised to make their mark in the competitive world of gastronomy. For aspiring chefs seeking a launching pad for their careers, Peterborough College’s Catering course stands as a beacon of opportunity and excellence.