FINE dining could soon be on the menu at one primary school after its cook was awarded Apprentice of the Year.

Alison Callaghan, 43, enrolled onto Blackburn College’s advanced apprenticeship to ‘spice up’ school dinners at Daisyfield Primary School, Blackburn.

Dinner lady Alison impressed staff with dishes such as Parma ham wrapped asparagus with poached eggs as part of her Level 3 Professional Cookery course.

She was awarded Apprentice of the Year at the College’s Catering and Hospitality Awards ceremony.

She said: “I love my job as a dinner lady, but I have always felt we could spice up our dishes a little more – if I knew how.

“At first I was nervous about returning to education, but I soon felt at home at Blackburn College and felt part of a great team.

“The favourite dish I created was Parma ham wrapped asparagus with poached eggs – it was a simple dish that was stunning to look at and tasted delicious, and the classic Beef Wellington.

“I have learnt to be more creative in preparing and making food and have seen my confidence grow and grow. I can’t wait to start trying new things at the school – although I might have to leave Parma ham wrapped asparagus with poached eggs off the menu just yet.”

The Catering and Hospitality Awards celebrated a range of courses including Professional Cookery, Food Safety courses; Hospitality Supervision; Apprenticeships in Cookery and Food and Beverage Service, Multi-Skilled Hospitality Services as well as Housekeeping and Front Office Reception.

Christine Kenyon, head of Hair and Beauty, Hospitality and Essential Studies Curriculum Centre, said: “On behalf of all the centre staff I want to congratulate our students on another year of outstanding work.

"For some students this is another chance in education, for others it is the start of their careers.

"I am exceptionally proud of what everyone has achieved. Their hard work, commitment and dedication is exemplary.”