Five-star experience for students

19 June 2007 LR

For the second year running, four Pembrokeshire College Professional Catering students will be living their dreams by working in some of the best five-star establishments in the UK this summer as part of a bursary organised by the college.

"The students will be working in the restaurants and kitchens of Claridge's, Gleneagles, The Berkeley and One Aldwych," said college hospitality and catering lecturer Peter Broady.

"These five-star hotels have numerous awards and accolades including best in Europe and the World categories.

"That's why it's an incredible opportunity for our students to learn from the best and be able to give a good impression that might stand them in good stead for their future career after completing their courses.

"One of the students from last year - Emma Davie was offered a job as a second commis chef at Claridge's after impressing them during her bursary."

The bursary is financed by Objective 1 funding with the aim to increase skills and raise aspirations. Many of the students will come back to Pembrokeshire with five-star skills and contacts.

Abbie Clark from Fishguard is looking forward to the experience of being based at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge which has two famous restaurants the Boxwood Cafe and Petrus, as well as one of the top five bars in the world the Blue Bar.

Gareth Evans from Croesgoch has had a thing about cooking since having several part-time jobs (whilst at school) at local restaurants first washing up and then preparing food.

"I gave up my psychology degree course in Cardiff to start the college course because I wasn't enjoying it and there was no guarantee of a job at the end of it," said Gareth.

"I will bring skills back to Pembrokeshire from gaining five-star experience in one of the top places in London."

Dawn Francis from Haverfordwest can't wait to work in Claridge's over the summer where there are the several kitchens including Gordon Ramsey's.

"I will get what I can from the experience," said Dawn, "then come back to complete my level three course at college before moving to a five-star London establishment."

Clare Ratcliffe from Neyland, who has been voted hospitality and catering student of the year by her tutors after successfully completing three courses in nine months, seems to be on a fast-track to starting her career proper.

"I will be looking for full-time employment after completing the bursary at Gleneagles," commented Clare, "I am hoping to gain lots of skills and have an enjoyable experience."

To find out more about hospitality and catering courses that can lead to jobs all over the world, either click HERE or call admissions on 0800 716 236.

Photo caption

Four Pembrokeshire College Professional Catering students will be gaining valuable five-star work experience this summer. From left to right they are: Gareth Evans (One Aldwych), Clare Ratcliffe (Gleneagles), Abbie Clark (The Berkeley) and Dawn Francis (Claridge's).

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