A new Head Teacher has been appointed at the Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy (EFDA) to lead its cookery courses and culinary events.
Aisha Elshani joins the organisation following nearly eight years as a culinary arts lecturer at Edinburgh College.
In her new role, she will lead the delivery of professional classes, including the recently launched Evening Professional Chef Course.
The appointment follows the academy’s relaunch earlier this year and an expansion of its educational programmes.
Aisha’s background includes positions at Heritage Portfolio, Victor & Carina Contini Restaurants, and The Torridon Hotel.
She also assisted in establishing the Honeycomb & Co eatery in Edinburgh and previously served as head pastry chef at Contini.
Aisha said: “I have always been passionate about creating a food industry that is as encouraging and welcoming as possible to existing and new talent, so I’m delighted to take on the role of Head Teacher at EFDA and be able to support emerging chefs to complete professional qualifications.
“Throughout my career I’ve gained experience working in hotels, venues, cafes and restaurants in a variety of roles.
“The result is a sharp focus on the importance of cooking from scratch, using high-quality ingredients from good suppliers, and leaning on seasonal produce to create menus that are inspiring and provide a modern twist on traditional dishes and flavours.”
Lucinda Bruce-Gardyne, CEO at Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, said: “This has been a pivotal year for us at EFDA, from rebranding to launching new professional courses, a wide choice of interest classes and valued partnerships with schools and businesses.
“I’m looking forward to working with Aisha in her role as Head Teacher to develop our offering.
“Combining her incredible cooking and baking skills with her zest for the industry and supporting those in it, I’m sure Aisha will bring her own ideas and techniques to support our continual growth and the community’s passion for freshly prepared good food.”
The academy’s Evening Professional Chef Course begins on 11 January 2027, allowing participants to gain qualifications without leaving full-time employment.
A 12-week Professional Cookery Diploma is also set to begin on 14 September, designed to train aspiring chefs and future restaurant owners.
An open evening detailing the professional courses will take place at the academy’s Queen Street premises on Wednesday 2 September.
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