Being a pastry chef is extremely hard work but with the right guidance and an undeniable passion, you could soon be named amongst the greats as a master of pastry and a person willing to pursue passion and creativity. As with any career, hobby or interest, being a pastry chef will not happen overnight. You need the right trainers, experience and mindset. There are a number of culinary institutions who are willing to help you cultivate these ideals and apply them to the creation of delicious sweet and savory pastries.
The French Culinary Institute
The French Culinary school is unique in that it allows you to study either on a full or part-time basis. This will of course, be determined by the amount of time you have to perfect your art. The school was founded by Jaques Torres who wanted to create a culinary academy which would cater to anyone with a passion for cooking and baking. The FCI are able to teach you no matter what level you start out at when you come to them which means you could go from being a complete amateur to a pastry chef within 6 months. There is an amalgamation of theoretical and practical skills, as well as the reputation of the school which will all work together in providing you with a potentially lucrative career, teeming with your own passions and goals.
The New England Culinary Institute
The New England Culinary Institute is renowned for combining theory with practical application and producing some of the world class pastry chefs who’s creations are all enjoyed by those in high society. It is considered one of the top ten culinary institutes in the world and offers degrees with specializations in pastries and other sectors. Having this kind of qualification from such a prestigious institute will mean being easily considered for rewarding prospects in the future as well as internships at some of the best restaurants and eateries.
L’Academie de Cuisine
While L’Academie de Cuisine is an institute that specializes in French cuisine, you will have the opportunity to specialize in the making of pastries. One of the many benefits of studying at such an academy is that you will also be part of a compulsory internship outside of the academy. This will throw you into a real world situation and help you to learn from other pastry chefs of an extremely high caliber. This practical experience will be more valuable than any certification, although the academy do offer full-time training programs for that surety and contextual.
These are three of the best pastry chef schools worldwide and although there are others, these are the academies you will want to consider for the best training and career development as well as reputation.
