The scheme was developed by the UK chef's bodies, including the Welsh Culinary Association. The aim of it is to raise the skills of chefs through on-the-job training and mentorship. Claire Barrell and Matthew Lewis, both chefs at the Lamb and Flag in Abergavenny, and development chef Doug Field, were nominated by Brains to take part in the Triple A Senior Chef pilot programme, which is running over 2011 with support from the Welsh Assembly. Arwyn Watkins, representing Wales on the AAA National Committee, said: "As the first Chefs to step up to the mark in pursuit of the Senior Chef Award, Doug, Matthew and Claire have set the standard for all future senior chefs. Not only are they passionate about achieving excellence but also have the skills and the ability to coach, mentor and manage members of their team." Scott Antony, the Committee's Development Director, added: "The enthusiasm and commitment of the Brains chefs to achieve the AAA Senior Chef standard has led to full testing for this third and final level to the Triple A, which Welsh chefs have pioneered over the last three years. "Thanks must go to Brains for the foresight and support they have shown in partnering this drive to equip staff to meet their customers' rising expectations."