It’s a long way from a Year 9 Food Technology classroom to a three Michelin star restaurant in London – but that is the exciting pathway a former Central Coast student in the Broken Bay Diocese has undertaken in a few short years. Source: Broken Bay News.
Anthony Lacovazzi’s passion for cooking and hospitality began at St Peter’s Catholic College, Tuggerah. Through the vocational pathways available at Catholic Schools Broken Bay (CSBB), he gained his practical and industry experience which turned his passion into a career reality.
He won the Battle of the Chefs competition in 2023, which brought students together from across CSBB schools to test their culinary skills in an authentic industry environment and experience the challenge, creativity and teamwork of professional kitchens.
Apprenticeships at leading restaurants followed along with awards which contributed to his selection for the Oliver C. Shaul Scholarship, which recognises Australia’s emerging culinary talent and opened the door to his international career.
The scholarship allowed Mr Lacovazzi to travel to London and gain experience at the three Michelin star restaurant The Ledbury – where he has been offered a fulltime position.
“I think [Vocational Education and Training] Hospitality played a huge role in shaping my future pathway. It gave me the practical skills, confidence and experience I needed to pursue a career in hospitality, while also giving me opportunities to compete, challenge myself and work alongside other passionate chefs,” he said.
“The work experience I gained through VET Hospitality really helped me excel and realise just how much I wanted to pursue a career in this industry.”
Earlier this year, Mr Lacovazzi returned to where his dreams of becoming a top chef began – St Peter’s at Tuggerah. He was invited to be one of the judges at this year’s Battle of the Chefs, and spent time mentoring a number of the students who share the same dreams and passion for culinary expertise.
CSBB director of schools Danny Casey said Mr Lacovazzi’s journey demonstrates the importance of creating opportunities for students to discover their strengths and connect their learning with the world beyond school.
St Peter’s Catholic College Principal Roisin McVeigh said this journey demonstrated the importance of giving students authentic opportunities to explore their strengths while they are still at school.
FULL STORY
From the Classroom to Top Class Chef and an International Career (Broken Bay News)
