Graduate Story – Sara Felix

Sara Felix graduated from our Diploma in Patisserie, and has just opened her very own Patisserie in Topsham, Exeter, called Sara’s Petite Cuisine, and we wish her all the very best.

What kind of cook were you before you took the course?

Before taking the course I considered myself a self taught cook, trying every recipe i came across and giving it to my family members to try.

What were your ambitions in taking the course?

I always had the dream of opening my own patisserie, and the cooking knowledge I possessed by then wasn’t enough to deliver the quality I wanted and take on the challenges of running a patisserie

What made you choose Ashburton Chefs Academy?

Before signing up for the chefs academy I had the chance to do day courses and weekend courses at Ashburton, so I could try the school out before committing for 15 weeks to a Diploma course. The cookery courses were so well organised and I learnt so much in such a short period of time that I was certain the 15 week commitment would help me to develop my skills and commence my career. The fact it was so conveniently located was also a bonus.

What did you think of the chef tutors?

Our tutor was an exceptional, a perfectionist may I say. He was also very keen in teaching us the theoretical side of patisserie as it is as important as the practical.

What have you done since graduating as a Pastry Chef?

Once I graduated from the Chefs Academy I secured a job at a well-known bakery in Exeter and what I learnt at the school helped me to be organised in the kitchen. And now I’m using the skills I learned at the school on a daily basis, at my own Patisserie.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to expand my Patisserie and keep producing good quality pastries for my customers.

Would you recommend the Diploma in Patisserie to others?

Definitely, I learnt so much in such a short period. This course has definitely opened a lot of doors for my career.

Do you have any advice for others thinking of training in Patisserie?

Pay full attention from start to finish as every little detail is crucial and will make a difference in your future career.

You can visit Sara's Patisserie at:-

Sara’s Petite Cuisine
80 Fore Street, Topsham,
Exeter EX3 0HQ

Open Monday – Saturday, 0900 – 1630.