TVU lecturer scoops education award at the Cateys

Thames Valley University (TVU) chef lecturer Michael Coaker has won the education and training award at this year’s Catey Awards.

He received the award in recognition of "his innovative approach to continuous learning, in particular addressing the needs of the industry" and was presented with the award at the Grosvenor House Hotel.

Coaker is the second TVU lecturer to achieve the accolade, following in the footsteps of Professor David Foskett who won the title in 2003. His achievement means that TVU is the only institution to have received the award twice, as well as being the only university to do so.

The Catey Awards run by Caterer & Hotelkeeper recognise and celebrate individuals who shape the hospitality industry. Coaker, who was an executive chef at the Intercontinental Hotels Group for more than 20 years before coming to TVU, is chairman of the Chef's Adopt a School programme.

This scheme is run by the Academy of Culinary Arts and takes professional chefs into schools with the aim of fostering a respect for food and teaching cooking as a life skill. He explains: "Our philosophy is that well informed children make well informed choices. If children learn about cooking and growing they are more likely to try different food."

Julia Sibley, chief executive of the Savoy Educational Trust and one of the judges, said: "Michael is a consummate professional who is unbelievably knowledgeable and passionate about food education. It doesn't matter if he's talking to a class of six year olds or university students, he has that special gift of being able to inspire each and every one in the importance of food."

Words: Sheila Eggleston

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