Adam Pickett

Department of Birmingham College of Food

Interim Head of Department CoF (FE) Chef Lecturer

Academic qualifications

Culinary Arts MA, Professional chef levels 1, 2, 3, Assessing qualification, IV qualification, Advanced Health and Hygiene

Email

a.pickett@ucb.ac.uk

"Throughout my career I’ve worked as a head chef in a range of hotels and restaurants, as a private chef for Premier League footballers, and I’ve travelled for work extensively."

My students know me as Chef Pickett, and I teach on our Professional Chef courses. With close to four decades of experience in the industry, my expertise includes advanced cookery, kitchen production, menu planning, restaurant set-ups, and teaching and learning.

Throughout my career I’ve worked as a head chef in a range of hotels and restaurants, as a private chef for Premier League footballers and I’ve travelled for work extensively. I also opened UCB’s satellite college in Chelmsley Wood. I draw directly on all of my professional experiences to prepare students for the realities of our industry.

I’m passionate about cooking and ingredients, bringing my enthusiasm for both into my classroom and kitchen. A common misconception is that the work we do is “easy” - it’s far from it, but it’s also very rewarding.

I’m proud of my students, many of whom have gone on to earn Michelin stars in their own restaurants. I encourage my students to be organised, work hard, and “be a sponge” at college by soaking up as much learning as possible. I was a student here myself in the ‘90s, so I understand the challenges students face and I aim to support them by sharing my passion and knowledge.

Outside of work, I enjoy sport, keeping fit, and watching my son play football. I’m a fan of the TV series Mr Inbetween and my favourite quote is: “Do it properly.”

Adam Pickett

"Throughout my career I’ve worked as a head chef in a range of hotels and restaurants, as a private chef for Premier League footballers, and I’ve travelled for work extensively."