Brasserie James

Brasserie James is a stylish British-French restaurant in Clapham, opened in 2008 by Craig James, former Head Chef of top Central London restaurant Quaglino's.

We spoke to Craig about his choice to bring in an apprentice, Kane Cooke, from South Thames College in Merton.

"When we were looking for a new member of staff, the apprenticeship scheme offered exactly what we needed. We were looking for an enthusiastic team member, keen to learn and also contribute new ideas.

Kane has fitted the bill very well. He has been working on starters and desserts, perfecting one dish then moving on to add more to his repertoire. His kitchen skills were good having spent some time learning the basics in college. But for us it is great to get a trainee involved in the hands-on work of preparing and plating dishes for demanding customers - he has gained skills and confidence much quicker than someone who has done all his formal training in a college.

In our line of work it is great for the team to have someone to pass on knowledge to. Kane has taken to the restaurant's philosophy and clearly enjoys the challenges we set him."