Paragon skills for industry

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Tomasz Wenclewski, an Apprentice with Paragon Skills for Industry, is celebrating after coming second at the Dorset Young Seafood Chef of the Year Competition, part of the Dorset Seafood Festival.

The 22 year old beat other young hopefuls from across Dorset to the final, following his training as a Junior Sous Chef at the Alexandra Hotel and Restaurant in Lyme Regis.

Tomasz is currently studying for his NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery with Paragon Skills and is passionate about cooking: “I thoroughly enjoy my chosen career and my aim is to learn through exploring new dishes and styles. One of my hobbies is to go out fishing then come back and cook my catch either at home, or on the beach.”

The final was judged by renowned British Chef Mark Hix, seafood expert Mitch Tonks and Tom Cull, star of Westcountry Television’s ‘Tom’s Big Feast’, which saw Tomasz come second for his pan-roasted fillet of sea bream with crushed new potatoes and black olives served with gazpacho salsa.

Tomasz said: “After two years at college in Poland I had confirmed my passion to become a chef. Before coming to England I did one month’s intensive onsite training in a hospital where I was involved with menu planning for all the patients’ special diet restrictions. I came to England to gain more experience in the industry and to build up my skills.”

Julie Hay, Assessor at Paragon Skills has been following Tomasz’s progress, she said: “Tom has a real flair for combining compatible ingredients and flavours. It is very rewarding to see such an enthusiastic young person achieving such a high standard. ”

For more information on career opportunities in Catering contact Paragon Skills on 0800 783 2545 or visit www.paragontraining.co.uk