When Martin Barr left school at 16, he already knew he wanted a career as a Chef. He undertook NVQ Level II in Food Preparation and Cookery at Austins Quality Training Services with four days per week work experience at Oysters Restaurant in the Waterside. It didn't take long for Martin to realise he had done the right thing and in 2000 he qualified at NVQ level III!

On completion of training Martin joined Oysters as a full time Commis Chef, earning his first full wage packet! He has gradually progressed through a number of positions with both Spice and Floyds restaurants and is now Head Chef at Oysters (Strabane) restaurant. Martin has been instrumental in the restaurant achieving the Flavour of Tyrone Good Food Circle Award. Not bad for just 23 years of age.

Shane McDermott, who completed his NVQ qualification in 1999/2000, is now Chef De Partie at the prestigious Castle Leslie, Co. Monaghan. He spent his apprenticeship on placement at the city's Exchange Restaurant, there was given valuable opportunities to work in different sections of the kitchen and prepare a wide selection of dishes. He moved to Castle Leslie in 2004 and works under Head Chef Noel McMeel.

"AQTS gave me a solid foundation to build on and continue with my career as a Chef. Moving to Castle Leslie and working with Noel has allowed me access to a variety of fresh, local and organic produce and it has given me great respect for food. I love coming back to AQTS and meeting the other young people who are training for the industry. It is a great industry to be in and AQTS is definitely the best starting point."