I have enjoyed cooking ever since I learned from scratch when I became a vegetarian at the age of 20. In 2005 I saw a job advertised for a trainee chef at the University of East Anglia, and thought that this may be an opportunity that would only come once: To try the profession and learn the ropes at someone else's expense. I enjoyed my time in the UEA's kitchens and progressed quickly, until I was asked to cover for the UEA's Nursery chef who was leaving. I found a job ideal for my experience, cooking for under 5's as I had as a house-husband, an entirely vegetarian menu of my own creation. I applied for the job and I now have my own kitchen, a distinction in my first professional qualification, and two awards in the first national Nursery Food Awards. I am still creating, but now every day of the week. I have just finished my first recipe book for parents at the UEA Nursery, and am planning a 'proper' published recipe book soon - watch this space.

Phone 01603 484472 or email: artenqs@chrisavey-murals.co.uk