Carving out new skills at Hidden Valley

April 12, 2010

At Hidden Valley, NCS’s Catering Manager John Cole, has begun teaching the lost art of fruit and vegetable carving to kitchen staff on site. John wanted to improve the presentation of the servery and buffets, particularly for the increasing number of special functions up at Hidden Valley. He decided to investigate teaching carving techniques and skills to staff. Carving requires special techniques and instruments to make those intricate shapes and flourishes out of fruit and vegetables.

John purchased some specialist carving knives and an instructional book and CD set from Thailand where this ancient art form started.

John initially held training sessions with five apprentices as part of NCS’ Apprentice Training Program that he coordinates on site. He  concentrated on special garnishing pieces like centrepieces that work well for buffets, as well as some of the basics that are used for daily decorations and salads.

“A lot of natural talent has been unearthed with this particular skill and I believe it should be nurtured.” said John. “This is becoming a dying art in the mainstream catering field and it’s becoming more specialised due to the labour cost and time taken to complete the more intricate designs.” he said

“By teaching our apprentices this extra skill they may not learn elsewhere we are strengthening their preparation for their futures in the industry as competent tradespeople” he continued

The magnificent results speak for themselves.

Given the interest and aptitude shown by both the apprentices and the speed with which they have picked it up, John said he will continue to teach these skills and will bring back a wider selection of knives and tools to site.

“The chefs, kitchen hands and stewards are also interested in trying it out, I think NCS will soon become the experts in the country for this creative skill” he said.

Well done to John Cole for taking the great initiative and for sharing your passion for this art form, and to our budding carving experts! Your work will be on display for MANY to enjoy – for years to come!

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