A world-class cooking academy has been set up in Bradford in response to a “curry chef crisis” caused by tighter immigration laws.

Bradford College has teamed up with acclaimed chefs from Bradford-based restaurants to create a range of innovative courses at its new International Food Academy.

The college is now working in partnership with Bradford restaurateur Omar Khan’s OK Academy to create courses offering specialist qualifications in Asian and international cuisine, with programmes ranging from apprenticeships to degree level.

The college said restaurateurs were facing an “unprecedented curry chef crisis” due to a tightening of immigration laws, leaving restaurants struggling to find skilled chefs.

Mr Khan said: “The immigration laws changed which meant restaurants wouldn’t be able to bring in chefs from India and Pakistan – it was difficult before but these new laws have basically stopped it.

“My academy was already running, I started it up for these people who are vulnerable or not working, or not getting opportunities, to give them the opportunity to do something worthwhile.”

Mr Khan said when the immigration laws changed he spoke to Bradford College principal Michele Sutton about his academy, and the decision was taken to form a partnership which will help encourage home-grown chefs.

The new academy was due to be officially opened today from 2.30pm at Bradford College.

Chefs from restaurants including Omar Khan’s, Akbars, Nawaab, Mumtaz, Aagrah and Prashad will join the team at the academy to prepare and cook signature dishes.

The college has said demand for courses is extremely high, with students across the globe vying for a place at the academy.

The curry chefs of the future will be trained by local chefs who have built up an international reputation for excellence.

  • Read the full story in Friday's T&A