School bosses hope the move will encourage students to take more interest in cooking and nutrition and to consider careers working in the industry.

The academy will be led by Craig Harrison, of Nottinghamshire-based company Charnwood Training Consultants, who will be responsible for managing the school's food preparation and catering education.

He has a wealth of practical experience and has worked as head chef and training manager at several restaurants across the county.

Craig has also worked as culinary arts director at New College Nottingham's Adam's Building Restaurant, where students cooked for the public as well as Michelin-starred restaurant Sat Bains.

'Confidence'

Said Craig: "It's important to teach students while they are young about food and cooking, especially as it gives them the confidence to try new things, broaden their diets and, most importantly, give them a skill that they may never have given a second thought.

"At the academy, we'll be giving Ashfield people the opportunity to experience our diverse industry and open the door to a geographical world of opportunities."

In addition to running classes for students, the centre will also provide adult education classes for the whole community.

Added Craig: "There will also be wine courses and we will work with community groups such as Ashfield Women's Centre to provide cookery classes for mothers and their children."

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