02 April 2019
A new festival will be launched this week to celebrate the broad range of trade skills and talent within the local hospitality industry.
Zest Festival, a partnership between Skills Jersey, Highlands College and the Jersey Hospitality Industry, will offer public demonstrations, workshops and lessons in practices such as butchery and cocktail making.
Between 4-6 April, a range of events will take place at the Pomme d’Or Hotel, Highlands College and local businesses.
An education hub will be based at Highlands College where students are invited to participate in interactive sessions related to the variety of skills used in the industry.
Assistant Education Minister, Deputy Jeremy Maçon, said: "This is a really exciting opportunity for students, parents and the community to recognise the range of talents and skills that lie behind the scenes of many roles in the island. Zest is about celebrating our array of services and showcasing that Jersey is a thriving hub for people to learn new skills within the hospitality industry."
Saboohi Famili, Director of Young People, Further Education, Higher Education and Skills, added: "Zest aims to bring industry and education closer together by showing what can be achieved through collaboration. The festival will demonstrate the wide-ranging skills found within the hospitality industry as well as show young people the diverse career options within the sector.
"We look forward to organising similar events in partnership with other industries to showcase their strengths and value to the island’s economy and as pathways for young people as a future career prospect. Any sector or industry who would like to be involved in future events please get in touch with Skills Jersey."
Festival attractions
The three days are packed with events with Thursday 4 April being focused on drinks. Celebrity Mixologist, Myles Cunliffe will lead a range of classes including cocktail making, Kraft beer and drinks service. Friday 5 and Saturday 6 will focus on food preparation and service including, Butchery, Fishmongery, and foraged foods.
Zest is the culmination of partnerships between Government departments including Children, Young People, Education and Skills and Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture with local businesses whose foundations are built on hospitality skills. The following industry bodies, charities and businesses have joined together in the planning for this festival:
- Jersey Finance
- Jersey Retail Association
- Easenmyne
- Visit Jersey
- Parish of St Helier
- Gr8
- Caring Cooks
- Jersey Dairy
- Prince's Trust
- Digital Jersey
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