A very warm welcome to WhitePepper. Our story begins with humble roots, fuelled by passion, dedication, and an extraordinary community. Over time, we have grown steadily and organically into a fully independent academy with an international reputation. Today we are proud to be the second-largest UK provider of the Level 4 Professional Culinary Arts Diploma, supported by over 20 awards, many at national level.
After 15 years on a Dorset farm, we moved to a Grade II listed building in the historic fishing town of Poole – gateway to the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. Students enjoy Dorset’s beauty and charm alongside excellent transport links and a wide range of accommodation options.
2010
Cookery School Founded
Founded by Chef Luke Stuart from two disused horticultural buildings on a previous Longhorn beef farm.
2011
Short Courses Launched
The academy opened with five signature courses: Beside the Sea, Feathered & Furred, Forage Fungi, French Patisserie and Bread at Bere Farm.
2012
Kid’s Cook School Launched
This ran for 4 years, from 2012 to 2016, and was consistently sold-out six months in advance. We offered classes for ages 4 to 7 and 8 to 12. We are now seeing those children attend our adult courses.
2014
Best Community Focused – UK Finalist
We were runner up at the UK & Ireland Cookery School Awards for our children’s Food Safari concept, and our support work for a disabilities charity.
2014
Best 1-Day Experience – UK Winner
Our experiential British game course, Feathered & Furred, plucked the top spot from runner-up, Jamie Oliver Cookery School.
2015
Chef Academy Launched
A professional ladder of Bronze, Silver and Gold training is devised, all underpinned with accredited qualifications by the CTH and Ofqual.
2015
Britain’s Favourite School – UK Winner
A huge milestone, the WhitePepper Academy wins Britain’s favourite small cookery school by vote of the British public.
2018
BAPTA Education Award – Winner
A David and Goliath contest, triumphing against universities, colleges and language schools within a 50 mile radius of Bournemouth and Poole.
2018
Cookery School Of The Year – UK Winner
Scooped the coveted award at The Royal Automobile Club, London by Food & Travel Magazine (the same year Chef Tom Brown won ‘Rising Star’).
2020
Gold Centre Status – By Invitation Only
From The Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality’s Academic Council, making us just 1 of 3 worldwide, at the time.
2020
WhitePepper Online Launched
A blended and flexible pathway towards a Level 2 culinary award, for educators, enterprise and individuals.
2022
Best Culinary Academy – UK Winner
A prestigious award from Southern Enterprise Awards, whose judging panel upgraded a regional nomination to a national title.
