Masterchef Star Says City College Plymouth Was Launch Pad for His Career!

Local Masterchef star, Anton Piotrowski, says studying at City College Plymouth was the launch pad for the career he has today.

But it wasn’t just about how to cook a great dish, it was the whole package of learning that was so good for Anton’s development.

Anton studied Hospitality and Catering at City College and eventually went on to secure fame in becoming the first ever joint winner of Masterchef: The Professionals in 2012.

Anton is managing director and head chef at the Treby Arms in Sparkwell which he runs with his wife Clare, also a former City College student.

Anton said: “Studying at the College provided me with the grounding for everything that I know today. But it was not just about cooking and being in the kitchens. We were given an insight into the whole business – you worked in the restaurant, at the front of house, so you understood the importance of customer service.”

Whilst studying, Anton worked in the kitchen of a hotel based in South Devon to gain more hands-on experience. Once he qualified, he returned to the hotel for three years before moving to London to work in a number of elite restaurants.

Eventually returning to the South West, he worked as a head chef before buying the Treby Arms.

Anton added: “The whole college experience really matures you; it gives you self-esteem and builds your confidence. Becoming a head chef is something you have to work hard for – it’s a ten year plan!”

For budding young Masterchefs, it’s not too late to start a Hospitality and Catering course at City College as they have a full-time course starting in January. For more information visit www.cityplym.ac.uk or come along to the New Start event at Kings Road between 4.00pm and 7.00pm on Tuesday 7 January 2014.