Richard Perks, Executive Chef
Richard Perks, CDS's new Executive Chef, was born and raised in southwest England and attended culinary school in Italy. He traveled and worked throughout Italy exploring his passion for food and love for Italian cuisine. Most notably he learned to make gelato and Italian pastries with renowned chef Corrado Assenza at Caffè Sicilia a Noto and mastered the art of pasta making with the ‘Salami King of Italy’ Massimo Spigaroli in Parma. Richard continued his formal training in the UK where he was fortunate to work with one of Canada’s top chefs, Malcolm Campbell. In addition, he has trained under world renowned and Michelin-starred chefs in Europe. Richard followed his passion to Hong Kong and to Perth, Australia, where he fine-tuned his culinary talents at fine dining establishments.
What is your favourite meal to prepare for your family?
Risi e Bisi (Italian Rice and Peas) in summer or Coq Au Vin with mash in winter.
Risi e Bisi (Italian Rice and Peas) in summer or Coq Au Vin with mash in winter.
Favourite Thanksgiving side dish?
Being English, this holiday is still relatively new to me. But I enjoy my mother-in-law’s mashed sweet potatoes with toasted marshmallows. I also like her hot curried fruit glaze served over ham.
Being English, this holiday is still relatively new to me. But I enjoy my mother-in-law’s mashed sweet potatoes with toasted marshmallows. I also like her hot curried fruit glaze served over ham.
Favourite part of working in a school Dining Hall?
Socializing with the teachers and kids; every day is different.
Socializing with the teachers and kids; every day is different.
Things you enjoy doing when not in a kitchen?
We have a very active two-year-old who I enjoy spending time with, along with my wife and family. I also love playing football (soccer) and watching good films.
We have a very active two-year-old who I enjoy spending time with, along with my wife and family. I also love playing football (soccer) and watching good films.
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
