Students from Ayrshire College, were fortunate enough to have an online Q and A session with Michelin Star celebrity chef, Clare Smyth MBE.

Clare gave the Hospitality and Professional Cookery students a brief history on her career and spoke about her inspiring journey on becoming the first and only British female chef to hold three Michelin stars in the UK.

She is the owner of ‘Core by Clare Smyth’ in London, and will soon open ‘Oncore by Clare Smyth’ in Sydney, Australia.

As one of the world’s most respected chefs and an active member of the international culinary community, she recognises the importance of fostering young chefs and attracting new talent to the trade.

Clare has catered for many high profile and exclusive events including the private wedding reception for the Royal Wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

She has trained in Alain Ducasse’s Le Louis XV in Monaco. She also worked under Gordon Ramsay for 13 years before opening her own restaurant.

Giving the students’ her valuable advice, Clare said “I’d encourage people who want a career in hospitality to invest in themselves.

“You can start from humble beginnings, and if you’re talented and work hard, then there’s huge opportunities to work where you want. The world is your oyster. If I can do it, then so can you. I hope you all enjoy it, it’s the best career in the world.”

Kirsty McGhee, a student on the Level 6 Hospitality course who took part, said she thoroughly enjoyed the experience, adding: “The opportunity to hear from a Michelin Star chef was amazing. What an inspiration.”

Hospitality Lecturer Claire Anderson said: “We were thrilled to be able to chat to one of the world’s best chefs. It was an unforgettable moment for all involved.”