David Pink started at PRP Training within the Catering Academy after deciding to choose a different career path from being a taxi driver.

He had not received any form of training for nearly 26 years, but within weeks achieved a Food Safety Level 2 qualification.

David gained confidence within the kitchen and began to develop his cooking skills further as he had never cooked before.

PRP Training assisted him in finding a work placement where he could develop his cooking skills to meet the requirements for qualifications they offer.

David was successful and started placement at the Silverdale Inn (Johnston) under supervision of head chef Kristian Fuchs and PRP Training assessor Emmaline Asher.

Once on placement, he was able to begin an NVQ Level 1 in Food Production and Cooking. He quickly completed this, which gained him recognition by being nominated as PRP Training Learner of the Month.

David progressed on to the Level 2 Food Production and Cooking and sealed a passion for catering after being on placement at the Silverdale. In fact, the Silverdale was so impressed by his attitude, they were more than happy to extend his placement to assist him in completing the qualification.

David was required to produce some dishes for the menu independently to meet high standards set out by head chef Kristian Fuchs and the requirements for the qualification. The Silverdale were so happy with the progress he had made, they offered him fulltime employment.

So, within a year, David went from being unemployed to having three qualifications and fulltime employment.

Catering tutor Jamie Bessant said: "David is the perfect student, going into a placement with the right attitude and frame of mind. This is why he has achieved so much in a small amount of time.

"PRP Training would like to thank the Silverdale for spending the time to develop David and giving him the chance of a placement."

For more information on the range of qualifications, either unemployed or work based, visit http://www.prptraining.co.uk">www.prptraining.co.uk or call 01646 623 780 for more information.