Seeing the Big Picture | Weekly Update for September 7-13, 2023 • Stratford Chefs School

Seeing the Big Picture | Weekly Update for September 7-13, 2023

Seeing the BIG Picture

Spotlight on Stratford Trailblazer Eleanor Kane
by Elizabeth Kerr | Huron-Perth Boomers Magazine

It has been ten years since Eleanor Kane stepped back from daily responsibilities at Stratford Chefs School, the School she co-founded in 1983 to deliver world-class culinary training to future Canadian chefs. Still involved as Chair of the School’s Advisory Group, Eleanor continues to inspire faculty, alumni, future chefs and the broader culinary community.
Recently, Alumna Elizabeth Kerr (Class of 2021) had the opportunity to spend time with Eleanor, to learn and understand what makes Eleanor’s story extraordinary, and also timeless.
Stratford trailblazer Eleanor Kane
Above: Eleanor speaking to students at Stratford Chefs School in the early days.
Being able to see the magnificent opportunity and the true big picture for the future of the city, Eleanor Kane and Marion Isherwood, and a growing group of culinary entrepreneurs, focused on building, promoting, and delivering a standard of hospitality, a level of cuisine, and a model of fine-dining service to match the excellence at the Stratford Festival
Above: Chef Instructor Mike Booth (left), Eleanor Kane and Marion Isherwood at Stratford Chefs School’s 2023 Gala Dinner at The Bruce Hotel.

” ‘The joy of being around those creative people gave us energy and inspiration.’ “
-Stratford Chefs School Co-Founder Eleanor Kane

Photos by Terry Manzo (Class of 1985)

OPEN KITCHEN

Public Cooking Classes

Open Kitchen season ends October 8! Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy our hands-on cooking classes. Hurry – classes are limited capacity and many are already sold out. Reserve online now!
Chef Instructor: ELI SILVERTHORNE

The intersection of education, hospitality and passion at which the SCS Staff live and work is phenomenal, and the dedication and care that they each bring to every aspect of their role at the Chefs School is the reason that this institution is so special. I’ve learned so very much about this industry and about life while I’ve been here, but the biggest lesson I will take away from any of this is the importance of giving a damn. All of you give a damn, and it has changed lives at this place since 1983.”
Jonathon Farrell | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2023 Valedictorian
The Stratford Chefs School provides the training to create world-class chefs who are comfortable working in any kitchen environment. Its immersive, approachable, interactive curriculum provided me with the tools and confidence that I needed early on in my career to make the transition from the school setting to the workforce. Perhaps most important to me are the lasting friendships that were made, the ongoing support from the SCS community, and exciting collaborations with other alumni.”
Alondra Galvez | Owner/Chef, El Cactus Taco Shop | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2003
The Stratford Chefs School offers an unparalleled learning environment in which students are immersed in a hands-on, realistic approach of what to expect in the culinary industry. My experience at the Stratford Chefs School exposed me to various cuisines, a limitless spectrum of cooking techniques, and an opportunity to work directly with renowned chefs. The calibre of the instructors, and their cumulative experience in the field, laid the foundation on which I could build the confidence I needed in order to pursue my career path.”
Yva Santini | Chef, The Flour Mill, St. Marys | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2009
At the Chefs School, I was given the opportunity to challenge myself, and expand the limits of my culinary skill and knowledge. SCS gave me the ability to trust in my own skill and allowed me to expand my knowledge. Now I confidently pass that skill and knowledge to my students.”
Mel Athulathmudali | Teacher, Strata Montessori | Owner, Chef Mel Catering | Stratford Chefs School Class of 2016

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAM

READ ALUMNI PROJECT PROFILES


QUESTIONS? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page or email Admissions at: admissions@stratfordchef.com


Photography by Terry Manzo (SCS Class of 1985)

What Sets Stratford Chefs School Apart

Innovative, World-class Program*

Our unique program model is method-based, hands-on, experiential, work-integrated learning, safely adapted to Covid-19 protocols.

High Quality Program*

An enriched, immersive curriculum with exceptional standards and small classes. Collaborative, experiential learning through practical classes, Dinner Labs, and Dinners To Go, with strict adherence to Public Health requirements.

Expert Instructors

Our approachable Chef Instructors and Guest Chefs bring diverse experience and culinary backgrounds to our collaborative, real-world learning environment.

Not-for-Profit Model

Profits are reinvested into our program and facilities; fundraising helps keep tuition costs realistic.

Alumni

SCS is widely recognized for training cooks who become the best chefs. Our reputation is built on Alumni success stories.

 

*This Employment Ontario Apprenticeship In-Class Training is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.  

 

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