Budding student chefs set for a culinary adventure in China

Eight Catering and Hospitality students are set to embark on an international trip to China as part of a new £2.5 million Department for Education programme in partnership with the British Council.

The group of eight students will spend one week in China (26^th October–3^rd November), linking up with a partner college in Liaoyuan. They will learn about China’s culture, education and history through a variety of activities, including participating in classes at the college, visiting local settings based on their area of Hospitality study, and having the opportunity to explore Chengdu, including the world famous Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a Szechuan cooking class and a traditional opera.

The international school exchange programme offers grants to secondary schools and colleges in England with above-average numbers of pupil premium and financially less-advantaged students. It will give thousands of learners a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience new cultures, improve language skills, and build independence and resilience.

Lizzy Wootton, Curriculum Team Leader at Burton and South Derbyshire College commented: “This is an exciting opportunity for our learners to expand their cultural horizons and develop new skills in the process. The Hospitality trade is a global industry and this experience will open their eyes to the endless opportunities there are worldwide.”

Vicky Gough, schools adviser at the British Council, said: “This school exchange to Chengdu will immerse Burton and South Derbyshire College students in a very different way of life, and the memories they’ll make will no doubt stay with them for years to come. International experience can have a positive and long-lasting effect on people’s lives, which is why it’s particularly important that we support pupils who might not otherwise get such an opportunity to learn about new cultures in this way.”

Taya Paynter, BSDC Hospitality student said: “This opportunity is a wonderful chance to experience a different culture and to expand my chosen career path. I am thrilled to be a part of this once in a lifetime trip, and from this I hope to gain knowledge and understanding that will develop me as a person and as a chef.”