Published: Thursday, 5th June, 2008 08:05
Emily tastes success
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Emily (back row, right) proudly displays the certificate of commendation, alongside her fellow team members and Jewel & Esk Valley College principal Howard McKenzie.
AN EAST Linton woman who battled dyslexia to become an award-winning commis chef experienced her first taste of success while taking part in a renowned French cooking competition.
Talented Emily Rolph, 21, of Kingsburgh Gardens, and three other cookery students, from Jewel & Esk Valley College in Edinburgh, took part in the famous Academie Culinaire de France competition, in Paris.
The foursome were the only non-French team to compete in the competition and were awarded a Diplome D’Honneur – a certificate of commendation – in recognition of their efforts.
They prepared a delicious two-course meal – a tower of sea bream with tomato salsa on a chive and garlic polenta base and a saffron base, followed by a flambéed dessert – to impress the judges.
Their success marked a personal triumph for Emily, who first became involved in the college’s Foundation course in Professional Cookery through Skillpower, a vocational course to aid young people in acquiring qualifications for either further education or employment.
“I wasn’t sure at that stage what I wanted to do with my life so I did the Foundation course (in 2004) and I haven’t looked back really,” said the former pupil of Knox Academy in Haddington.
“I’ve now just finished my Level Three Professional Cookery which equips me for work as a commis – or trainee – chef.”
Curriculum leader Ron McGilp said: “Emily and the team did tremendously well and it was a great experience for them.
“The Academie Culinaire de France is world renowned as the oldest association of Chefs de Cuisine, and most would say the best.
“To be presented with a Diplome D’Honneur by this organisation is no mean feat!”
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Honoured by Her Majesty