The proof is in the pudding for local employers

Professional cookery students from a local College had the perfect opportunity to show off their new-found skills when they hosted a recent Cornwall business event.

The students, all part of the Rick Stein Academy at Truro and Penwith College, worked in the kitchen and on front-of-house duties at the College’s Truro restaurant in order to demonstrate their catering and service skills.

The Hospitality Dinner, arranged by Natwest Business Banking and hosted at Spires restaurant, was an opportunity for local business leaders to network and share in the achievements of cookery Apprentices in Cornwall.

Before enjoying their meal guests heard from speakers including Mike Sloggett, Natwest Business Banking, Tom Moran, Truro and Penwith College, along with special guests Michael Rabone, Head of Human Resources at The Rick Stein Group and Rebecca Brewer, an Apprentice chef with The Rick Stein Group, who shared their first-hand experience of working with the College and the efforts made by both parties to create The Rick Stein Academy.

“When I applied to work at The Rick Stein Group, I wasn’t sure I would get the job as it was very competitive, I was thrilled when I heard I had been successful.” said Rebecca. “I love working in a kitchen environment and enjoy the adrenaline of service, I hope to progress in my career to become a head chef and am keen to work abroad and experience from the best around the world”.

Michael Rabone endorsed the contribution Apprentices make to the workplace and highlighted the partnership with the College. “We are very proud of our apprentices and Rebecca is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when young professionals are provided with an opportunity to flourish. It gives us great satisfaction to see our apprentices taking on bigger roles within our kitchen teams, something only made possible by our great relationship with Truro and Penwith College”.

Both Natwest and Truro and Penwith College intend to offer more opportunities to students in a range of areas.

Mike Sloggett added: “One in three students training in vocational areas go on to start their own business. One of our next projects is to offer lessons in business start-up to learners in these areas ensuring they not only leave College with the practical skills, but are well prepared to run a business benefitting both their personal careers and the local economy”.

Natwest Business Banking and Truro and Penwith College have been working together for nearly 12 months to offer opportunities to students and the local community. Previously providing students lessons in money management and offering free advice sessions on business start-up and training in the local community.