Katie Harkin - Professional Cookery

As part of our John Mather Trust Awards coverage, we're speaking to some of this year's recipients to find out what they're up to now, and how they enjoyed their time at Ayrshire College.

The John Mather Trust rewards our graduates who have: learned a trade and gone into employment, an apprenticeship or set up their own business within the past year. Those fortunate enough to be eligible for a John Mather award received a set of tools of the trade to help them in their careers.

Katie Harkin studied Professional Cookery Levels 4, 5 and 6 and now works as a Chef at The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha. These qualifications not only helped her to secure her job, but will give her the opportunity to work on cruise ships in the future. Here she tells us more about her college experience...

"I wasn’t getting on great at school, so I left and opted for college. I’ve always liked cooking and I wanted to get qualifications to help me turn my passion in to a job.

I started on Professional Cookery Level 4. I was a little concerned about how much theory there would be, as I’m not very confident with written work, but the lecturers were so helpful and their support made it much easier for me, so much so that I went on to complete Level 5 and Level 6.

I learned to understand recipes and about all aspects of working in a kitchen. I made so many dishes – with different types of meat and different flavours. Everyone was so friendly. I met so many new people and made new friends who had the same interests as me. I loved cooking for the public and enjoyed preparing food that I had never tasted before.

I gained so many skills and really developed as a person. My communication skills have improved, I’ve learned to be organised when I work by developing skills such as time management and, very importantly, I’ve learned to be confident, even when I don’t feel like I have any.

I’m currently working full time as a Chef at The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha and these courses helped me get here. Ayrshire College is an amazing place to learn. The lecturers motivate you, encourage you and really bring out the best in you. Now that I’ve and earned my qualifications I can consider moving on and working on cruise ships in the future."

If you're interested in pursing a career in Hospitality or Professional Cookery we have a selection of courses to help you on your way!