Leicester College Taste Trip

A group of Year 9 and 10 Hospitality and Catering Level 1/2 Learners had a very informative and educational visit to Leicester College Hospitality and Catering Department.

The visit started with a tour of the facilities on site, looking particularly at the various teaching kitchens and restaurants.

Our students observed Level 2 and 3 learners in Kitchen and Front of House job roles, working in both The Taste Restaurant and the College café. They were inspired to hear that a level 3 learner from Leicester College is embarking on a career at The Ritz as a Commis Chef, after qualifying.

It was also a delight to see a former pupil, Jack Baxter working for Front of House during our restaurant experience. He has been at the college for three years now, is about to achieve his Level 2 Professional Cookery qualification and will be moving on to Level 3 Professional Cookery. Jack plans to work as a commis chef and develop skills to become a Head Chef.

The students from Lancaster enjoyed a three course meal in the Rosette Standard Taste Restaurant, tasting foods that many had not sampled before and experiencing silver service, delivered by the very competent Front of House staff trainees.

After lunch the students had the opportunity to get hands on in the demonstration kitchens. They were given a demonstration in professional plating up. They were encouraged to utilise the skills demonstrated, to practice and develop skills in presentation that would help in their Unit 2 exam in school.

The students thoroughly enjoyed this session and produced some very imaginative restaurant quality plates of food.

Throughout the visit, our students were an absolute credit to the Academy. The Restaurant Manager in particular commented on how quiet, calm and well behaved they were in the restaurant and the Chefs commented on their enthusiasm in their tasks.

The Hospitality and Catering industry is one of the biggest employment sectors in this country, giving those within the trade opportunities to travel and work in exceptional settings. It has been encouraging to see our students considering a career in this field, after this visit.