A talented young chef’s success in her role at Loch Lomond’s Cameron House Hotel has been celebrated as part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week.

Jodie Cochrane, 18, joined the food and beverage team in July 2021 as part of the hotel’s new chef apprenticeship programme, before being promoted to commis chef in December.

In 2020, she was crowned Springboard Future Chef – a nationwide cookery contest with more than 15,000 entries.

Jodie was mentored through this process by Cameron House’s executive chef Zoltan Szabo.

Zoltan said: “Jodie was an absolute joy to mentor during the Springboard Future Chef competition.

“She is an energetic young talent and her dedication shone through throughout the process, so it is extremely rewarding to have her as part of my team now.

“Supporting young talent through initiatives such as Cameron House’s apprenticeship scheme is so important as it could unlock the door for a future expert or leader in the sector.

“Anyone considering a career in hospitality should be encouraged to explore what a rewarding career it can be.”

Jodie found her passion for cooking after taking a hospitality class at Trinity High School in Cambuslang.

This was a turning point for the then 16-year-old who, until then, had been unsure of what career path she wanted to take.

Since joining the team, she has worked across a range of departments and has placed her first dish on the Cameron Grill menu – a blood orange crémeux.

Helensburgh Advertiser: Jodie was mentored by Zoltan at a national competition in 2020Jodie was mentored by Zoltan at a national competition in 2020

Jodie said: “I remember receiving my apprenticeship confirmation letter while still at school, with my teachers who taught the hospitality class, and we were all screaming. It was a great feeling.

“Joining the team at Cameron House has given me a great insight into the way a big resort works; it’s fast-paced and demanding, but every day ends with you feeling very proud of what you’ve accomplished.

“I’m grateful to Zoltan and the team for the opportunities.”

The chef apprenticeship programme was launched in January 2020, providing paid training for those keen to pursue a career in food service.

Over the course of 18 months, up to eight young chefs can gain experience across the resort’s restaurants to develop their food preparation, service, and health and safety skills.

Jennifer Jurgensen, Cameron House director of human resources, added: “It is a pleasure for us to offer opportunities for budding professionals at Cameron House, where new starts learn from an award-winning team at one of Scotland’s most iconic resorts.

“Following a particularly challenging time for young people in employment, due to the impacts of Covid-19, we’re delighted to promote success stories such as Jodie’s, shining a light on the importance of apprenticeship schemes.”