Michael Finds Passion For Food In Q Cafe
Michael with his team doing long distance skiff race in Dublin bay.
At The Q Cafe Company we endeavour to train young people in the skills required to work in the catering industry. For those who are more practical orientated, spending time with a skilled head chef can enable a young mind to flourish and grow. With this in mind we continually support work placements from both school and college, with many students working with us.
Most recently Michael Oman Wynn spent the summer working with The Q Cafe Company from which he returned to us to complete a 2 week work placement as part of the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme (LCA). Michael studies the LCA in Newpark Comprehensive School, Blackrock, Co. Dublin. Through the programme students are prepared for working life in a structured, practical two year course. Here students can progress positively for those who do not wish to attend third level education or for those who’s needs, aspirations or aptitudes are not fully met by the more well known Leaving Certificate Programme.
We sat down with Michael this week to see how he was finding work experience with executive chef Dave Gorman.
Michael, a rowing fanatic, enjoys working in the catering industry as it provides a great challenge without the monotony (or boredom in his words!) of an office job. It allows him to get more hands on and creative. One of the most interesting skills he learnt over the past two weeks was bread making and salad preparation. Here he worked with executive chef Dave Gorman learning all the skills involved in the process of baking fresh bread and making fresh salads for customers daily. Where salads were concerned, using lots of colour was really important according to Michael, as we eat with our eyes. From this, he gained experience in the importance of food presentation, from which colour remained an important aspect in preparing and serving main dishes also.
Making new dishes everyday was a fantastic experience for Michael, preventing the dreaded boredom that is often associated with working life. He has come away from The Q Cafe Company with a few certificates to his name as well! Over the summer he gained a qualification in Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (or HACCP) in which he is now highly skilled in food safety management systems and chemical training. He also received training in European regulations regarding allergens and food preparation.
We want to say a huge well done the Michael for working with us. His work ethic, intelligence and creativity is second to none! A great talent in the kitchen alongside his passion for rowing. We hope to have him back with us again soon.
If you would like more information on the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme please click here.
