In the bustling world of school catering, one name has recently stood out for her exceptional dedication and innovative approach: Jennifer Brown, the 2024 LACA School Chef of the Year and one of our Academy chefs here at OCS. With a career that transitioned from the pub trade to the educational sector, Jennifer’s journey is a testament to her passion for cooking and her commitment to providing nutritious meals to students.
From Pubs to Schools: A Journey of Passion and Balance
Jennifer Brown’s culinary journey began in the pub trade, where she honed her skills in a fast-paced environment. However, the birth of her children, Gilbert and Samuel, prompted a shift in her career. Seeking a better work-life balance, Jennifer found her calling in school catering. “The education sector allowed me to spend more time with my kids while still pursuing my passion for cooking,” she recalls. This transition not only allowed her to be present for her children but also opened a new avenue for her to impact young lives through food.
Influences and Inspirations: A Legacy of Thriftiness
Jennifer’s approach to cooking is deeply influenced by her grandmother, who instilled in her a love for pickling, making jams, and being resourceful. “Watching her create amazing dishes from simple ingredients has greatly influenced my approach to cooking,” Jennifer shares. This thrifty mindset is crucial in school catering, where budgets are limited, and every ingredient counts. Jennifer’s ability to create nutritious and delicious meals from limited resources is a skill she attributes to her grandmother’s teachings.
Innovating School Meals: Creativity on a Budget
In her role as a school chef, Jennifer constantly seeks to innovate and excite students with her recipes. She believes in the importance of offering variety and making food visually appealing. “We don’t give kids enough credit for what they’re willing to try,” she says. By incorporating spices, herbs, and colourful ingredients, Jennifer ensures that school meals are not only nutritious but also enticing. Her creative approach proves that even with a capped budget, it’s possible to provide meals that are both healthy and enjoyable.
Challenges and Advocacy: Fighting for Better Funding
One of the most significant challenges Jennifer faces is the budget allocated for school meals. “The budget is always a concern, but being thrifty and resourceful helps,” she explains. Jennifer has been actively involved in initiatives like the levelling up team, advocating for better funding for school meals. She emphasises the importance of increasing the free school meal value to ensure all children receive the quality food they deserve.
A Vision for the Future: Community and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Jennifer envisions a future where schools play a more significant role in the community, offering programmes that support families and promote sustainability. She has been part of initiatives like “Cook Together, Eat Together,” which provides a communal dining experience in schools for less privileged families. Jennifer also grows her own herbs and uses seasonal produce, emphasising the importance of sustainability in school catering. “It’s about creating a supportive environment where everyone has access to nutritious meals,” she says.
Culinary Classroom: Elevating Culinary Talents
Jennifer’s commitment to culinary excellence extends beyond her kitchen. She participated in OCS’s Culinary Classroom programme; an internal chef training initiative designed to harness and elevate culinary talents within the organisation. “It was an amazing experience,” Jennifer recalls. “I felt so honoured and invested in.” The program provided her with invaluable knowledge and skills, which she now passes on by teaching her own workshops. Jennifer’s passion for game cooking has led her to teach Culinary Classroom participants how to prepare dishes like pheasant and venison, broadening their culinary horizons and respect for food.
The Triumph of 2024: A Well-Deserved Recognition
Jennifer’s dedication and hard work culminated in her winning the 2024 LACA School Chef of the Year earlier this year. Competing for four years, she finally clinched the title, a testament to her perseverance and skill. “This year, I was more relaxed and focused,” she reflects. Her victory is not just a personal achievement but also a recognition of the importance of nutritious school meals and the impact they have on students’ lives.
Gratitude and Teamwork: A Collective Effort
Jennifer is quick to acknowledge the support of her team, without whom her success would not have been possible. “I couldn’t have done it without them,” she says. Her gratitude extends to everyone who has supported her journey, highlighting the collective effort behind her individual achievements.
Jennifer Brown’s story is one of passion, innovation, and dedication. Her journey from the pub trade to becoming the 2024 LACA School Chef of the Year is a remarkable example of how one person’s commitment to excellence can make a significant impact. Through her creativity, resourcefulness, and advocacy, Jennifer continues to inspire and nourish the young minds she serves every day.
