Adam Pickett
Community Learning Champion
Bringing the classroom to the heart of the community
What if starting a new career didn’t mean travelling across the city - but instead began right on your doorstep?
That’s exactly what Adam Pickett set out to achieve when he created the Chelmsley Wood Culinary School, a pioneering new training centre in the heart of a local shopping centre.
As a chef lecturer and Academic Director - Commercial Culinary Operations at the Birmingham College of Food, Adam had a clear vision: make high-quality hospitality training accessible to everyone, especially those who might otherwise miss out.
And he did all this whilst undergoing treatment for cancer – showcasing his resilience, commitment and determination to support his students and community.
Breaking down barriers to learning
For adults thinking about returning to education, practical barriers can often stand in the way - cost, travel, or simply a lack of confidence. Adam’s approach tackled those challenges head-on.
Opened in 2025, the Culinary School is unlike a traditional college setting. At its centre is Bluebell Wood, a public café where learners prepare and serve affordable, high-quality food.
This isn’t just practice - it’s real experience. Students work in professional kitchens, serve real customers, and build the confidence and skills needed for jobs in the hospitality industry.
For many, it’s their first step into a completely new future.
By bringing training directly into the local community and offering free introductory courses, the programme has opened doors for people who might never have considered a career in hospitality.
A personal story of dedication
Behind the success of the project is Adam’s determination to make a difference.
While leading the development of the Culinary School, he continued his work despite undergoing treatment for cancer - remaining committed to supporting his students and community throughout.
His resilience mirrors the spirit of the learners he supports: people overcoming challenges, building new skills, and creating fresh opportunities for themselves.
A model for the future
The Chelmsley Wood Culinary School is more than just a training centre - it’s a new way of thinking about education.
The Chelmsley Wood Culinary School goes beyond traditional training, creating a learning experience that is practical, inclusive and life-changing.
It’s one that meets people where they are, connects learning with real life, and puts opportunity at the heart of the community.
By opening doors to skills, careers, and confidence, Adam and the team are strengthening the region's workforce. Through high-quality training and clear pathways into employment, they are developing a diverse pipeline of skilled professionals to meet industry demand while helping learners secure sustainable careers and contribute to stronger, more inclusive communities across the West Midlands.
Rosa Wells, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at University College Birmingham said: “Through Adam’s leadership, the Chelmsley Wood Culinary School has become far more than a training centre. It is a vibrant community hub where residents can gain skills, build confidence and explore new career opportunities.
“Adam’s vision has transformed a unit in the local shopping centre into a professional training environment and welcoming café where learners cook and serve food to the public while gaining valuable industry experience.”