A CULINARY apprentice is set to cook up a storm at a top chef’s new restaurant.

Professional cookery student apprentice, Sarah Ireland, 18, has landed a fantastic new job at Marco Pierre White’s new restaurant, The Steakhouse Bar and Grill, based at the Doubletree Hilton Hotel in Chester.

Sarah said: “I am very excited but nervous – Marco has very high standards.”

Sarah joined Mid-Cheshire College in 2008 and completed a Level Two qualification before progressing on to a Level Three in professional cookery.

As an apprentice, Sarah now receives tuition in the workplace and is visited by her assessor, Jason Palin.

He said: “I am really made up for Sarah getting this opportunity.

“She is an excellent apprentice, very professional and always immaculate.”

Sarah took up her new position last week in preparation for the grand opening on February 16, and head chef, Chris Brown, paid tribute to his new colleague.

Chris said: “Sarah is a lovely girl, very bubbly and enthusiastic.

“Her eyes lit up as soon as we started talking about food, her passion for food and presentation was very evident,” he added.

The college is sharing Sarah’s achievements to raise awareness for National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from February 1 to February 5.

The week is part of the Government’s aim to drive forward apprenticeships as part of the National Apprenticeship Service, which was launched in 2009 and gives students the chance to gain job-specific skills from experienced professionals.

Sarah’s achievements have been recognised after receiving a nomination for the North West Young Apprentice of the Year, which takes place in April.

There is a wide range of apprenticeships available at Mid-Cheshire College, including hospitality and catering, engineering, business administration, customer service, accounting and motor vehicle.

Anyone interested in an apprenticeship should contact the college for more information on 01606 720680.