We are now in our fifth year of running the prestigious Pru Leith’s Cookery Course, which is completed over the first five terms of the Sixth Form. Originally starting with one Lower Sixth Group, we now run two courses per year group and this year we welcomed Mrs Nicky Souter to replace Mrs Viv Burroughs, who retired from the staff in the summer.
The course provides all the basic skills required to be a competent chef, with a mixture of modern and traditional cuisine, enabling its pupils to cook for any occasion and any number of people. As well as cooking, the chefs also spend time with a Master of Wine, tasting various wines and learning how to select wines to compliment different foods and recipes.
Each group prepares for a weekly session over the five terms, covering both the theory and practice of cookery and finish with the coveted Leith’s qualification at either Ordinary, Merit or Distinction level, a professional certificate in food and wine.
The course is organised through a limited franchise and Dean Close is the only school in Cheltenham able to offer the Leiths Certificate.
Sample dishes:
- Aubergine & Proscuitto Gougere
- Cheese Souffle
- White Poppy Seed Loaf
- Smoked Trout Pate
- Tomato & Basil Salad
- Steamed Tracle Sponge with Creme Anglaise
- Victoria Sandwich
- Moules Marinieres
- Greek Parsley Pasta with Fresh Pesto
- Risotto Milanese
- Sticky Toffee Pudding
- Coq Au Vin
- Salmon Noisettes with Beurre Blanc