ICSA Cookery Schools are selected and ‘Accredited’ for their consistent quality teaching standards and cookery facilities.
Providing reassurance to cooks and students of all levels, gaining transferrable life skills, culinary knowledge and a memorable cookery experience.
Tewinbury Cookery Cookery School, Hertfordshire, were recently assessed by our independent ICSA accreditors and achieved a very high score for their teaching standards and facilities, achieving an coveted ‘Centre of Excellence’ Award. The award was presented to Head Chef Tutor Lee Maycock (Pictured), who happens to also be a world renowned Chef to TV and film studios as well as a previous chairman of the renowned Craft Guild of Chefs. So who is the person behind the chef tutor?
MEET CHEF LECTURER: LEE MAYCOCK, Tewinbury Cookery School , Hertfordshire
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Q: Lee, What made you want to become a chef?
A: My journey into the culinary world began during my youth, where I had the opportunity to work in hotels. The fast-paced environment and the creativity involved in cooking sparked my passion for the culinary arts.
Q: Tell us about your career journey to becoming a chef tutor.
A: With over 30 years of experience in hotels, restaurants, events, and even film & television, my career has been diverse and rewarding. I’ve had the honor of serving as the Past Chairman of the Craft Guild of Chefs, which was a significant milestone in my journey. Now, as a chef tutor, I bring my wealth of experience to our cookery school, which opened its doors in August 2022. Our school offers over 40 sessions, catering to everyone from junior chefs to professionals and even corporate events. One interesting fact about our school is that it was designed, built, and opened in just 10 weeks!
Q: What can students expect from your style of teaching?
A: Students can expect an informative and detailed approach to cooking, with a focus on ingredient-led, seasonal, and sustainable practices.
Q: What kind of cookery courses, cuisine, or techniques inspire you the most?
A: I find inspiration in seasonal, local, and sustainable ingredients, often drawing from farm-inspired cuisine.
Q: How do you bring your own unique style to your courses?
A: My courses are characterised by a depth of knowledge and a commitment to sustainability, reflecting my years of experience in the culinary industry.
Q: What sustainability practices do you follow in the kitchen and pass on to your students?
A: We prioritise home and farm-grown ingredients, encouraging students to embrace sustainable practices in their cooking.
Q: What is your top sustainable tip for any domestic kitchen?
A: Grow your own produce whenever possible—it’s not only sustainable but also incredibly rewarding.
Q: What three ingredients do you always have on hand?
A: Cornish Sea Salt, Telecherry Pepper, and Farringdon’s Rapeseed Oil are staples in my kitchen.
Q: Which kitchen utensil/gadget could you not do without?
A: I rely heavily on my Vita Mix or Kitchen Aid—they’re indispensable tools in my kitchen.
Q: What one essential kitchen tip/subject would you share for any level of aspiring kitchen gourmand?
A: Always remember to season, taste, and season again—balancing flavours is key to creating delicious dishes.
Q: What does it mean to you to be a member of ICSA?
A: Being a member of ICSA allows me to connect with some of the country’s best culinary schools, fostering collaboration and growth within the industry.
Q: What other professional/accrediting bodies do you respect/aspire to?
A: I hold the Craft Guild of Chefs in high regard, admiring their dedication to culinary excellence.
Q: Finally, describe your unique cookery school experience to someone who may have never been.
A: Our cookery school is a farm-inspired haven, where sustainability, seasonality, and informative learning converge. From home-grown produce to immersive sessions, we offer a truly unique culinary experience for all levels of enthusiasts.
Thank you for sharing your insights with us. Your dedication to sustainable cooking and commitment to culinary excellence are truly inspiring.
Read more about Tewinbury Cookery School here
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