History
In 2006, two of the School of Artisan Food’s directors decided to open an artisan bakery in the premises of the old fire station on the beautiful and rural Welbeck Estate in the middle of Sherwood Forest. Having designed two large wood-fired ovens, it seemed a perfect location to teach aspiring artisan bakers - it had been difficult to find bakers with the requisite skills. Other artisan producers on the estate became interested in the fine courtyard buildings, and the idea of creating a centre of excellence for learning in all aspects of artisan food production was born. The emphasis is on foods that ferment (bread, cheese, beer, dairy, charcuterie) and the teaching centres on the school’s training rooms, as well as using practical placements in existing and future artisan businesses. A not-for-profit company was set up, headed a board of people who are passionate about artisan food and who work both locally and nationally. The East Midlands Development Board kindly funded the first stage of capital works and the complete refurbishment of two thirds of the building started in February 2009 and will be finished in September 2009. In our first year we shall be offering short courses at all levels, and in our second, starting in 2010, we shall be offering a Foundation degree in Artisan Food.