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Project seeks £50k for cocktail training bar
Long-term unemployed young adults could have the chance to train as professional mixologists and thanks to a new project in partnership with The Prince’s Trust.
Two of the founders of the Institute Project: James Drummond, managing director (left), and Conscian Morgan, creative director (right)The Institute Project aims to raise £50,000 in order to build a “pioneering” cocktail bar, which will be used to train future mixologists and provide a real working environment for trainees to gain invaluable experience.
Founded by UK charity The Prince’s Trust, James Drummond, manager of The Southsider cocktail bar in London and managing director of the Institute Project, and film director Conscian Morgan, of Uzong Films, the project is being backed by 15 London bars, including London Cocktail Club.
“Supporting the Institute project creates a genuine opportunity for us to tackle youth unemployment one cocktail at a time,” said Drummond.
Over two four-week periods, young people referred by The Prince’s Trust will learn about the art of mixology, be taught how to recreate popular cocktails and receive tips on working in a bar and behind the scenes from professional mixologists.
Following successful completion of the course, trainees will be able to apply for an apprenticeship with one of the scheme’s mentors, after which they will be placed in a position in a top London bar.
Mentoring the scheme along with Drummond will be JJ Goodman, owner of London Cocktail Club, and bartender Jamie Macdonald, who has won several awards including World Class UK Bartender 2011.
“I’m excited to be showcasing cocktail bartending in all its glory, drawing in the next generation who will hopefully continue to push the industry forward,” commented Goodman.
MacDonald added: “The Institute Project will be a true leader in training our next generation of professional bartenders. It is humbling to be a part of raising exceptional talent within a vibrant and growing industry.”
The apprentice scheme is set to begin in April while Institute Project Bar is scheduled to open in autumn 2014.
For further details and to make a donation visit www.theinstituteproject.co.uk.