A Warm Welcome to Our New Teacher and In-House Pastry Chef, Sophie

We’re delighted to welcome Sophie Halpin to the teaching team at Edinburgh New Town Cookery School. With a wealth of experience working in prestigious hotel kitchens, Sophie brings not only her technical expertise in pastry but also her passion for passing on knowledge to the next generation of chefs.

Sophie’s love for food started early, taking her from three years of Baking and Pastry Arts at college straight into an internship at the Ritz Carlton in Dubai. It was here she discovered her enjoyment of the hotel environment. After returning to Ireland, she gained further experience across a number of hotels before becoming a part of the team that opened the five-star Adare Manor. Over five years, Sophie played a key role in the kitchen, and even launched a line of commercial chocolates.

Seeking a new challenge, Sophie moved to Scotland to work at Gleneagles as a sous chef in pastry. Leading and mentoring a team of 24, Sophie discovered how much she enjoyed supporting young chefs and helping them to build their confidence and skills. That love of teaching has now led her to joining us at Edinburgh New Town Cookery School.

Sophie is especially excited about sharing her passion for pastry with our students. She understands that pastry can feel intimidating, and her goal is to help students approach it with more confidence and creativity. She’s also enjoying being part of Edinburgh’s thriving food and drink scene, while continuing to learn from the experienced team of teachers here at the school.

We are thrilled to have Sophie on board and know that her experience, enthusiasm, and dedication to her craft will inspire both our professional students and those who join us for short patisserie courses.

Have a look at some of her delicious patisserie below…