LVS Hassocks would like to offer huge and sincere congratulations to our former learner Liam Pope who is preparing to start the new term in his new role for Sodexo at Wycombe Abbey school. Liam is taking on the key role of chef de partie at the school having thrived and progressed as a commis chef at LVS Ascot.
Liam is the perfect example of how an LVS Hassocks education can give learners the skills they need to live independently as adults. When Liam arrived at LVS Hassocks aged 14 he was only able to make a pot noodle and had no thoughts of a future career. He met and gained advice from celebrity chef Paul Rankin at the school’s official opening in 2011 which ignited his interest, and LVS Hassocks capitalised on this to develop Liam’s prospects of leading an independent life beyond the school. By the time he left at 17, Liam had a planned career path thanks to hands-on work experience with the Yummy Pub Co, an NVQ Level 1 qualification in Food Preparation and Cooking, academic qualifications and an apprenticeship to run alongside an NVQ Level 2 in Food Production and Cooking, funded by members of the ALMR (Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers).
An apprenticeship working for Sodexo in Ascot led to a permanent position, during which time he became Young Chef of the Year at the Sodexo Salon Culinaire. His career progression has continued and last month he said goodbye to his friends and colleagues in Ascot ready to take on his new challenge with greater responsibility at one of the top girls’ boarding schools in the country.
LVS Hassocks Director of SEN Sarah Sherwood said: “I have known Liam since he joined LVS Hassocks and it has been amazing to see him progress. The school set him on his way to success by nurturing his interest in cooking from just seeing a flicker of engagement and it has led to a great career that continues to grow. Liam is now an independent and ambitious young man enjoying life and his career. This is a great example to all the learners that we are currently developing through work experience, a range of qualifications and the building of their independence and social skills who we hope will follow in Liam’s footsteps beyond LVS Hassocks”.