Burgess Hill students have cracking time cooking with chefs

Students at Woodlands Meed College in Burgess Hill were recently cooking up a storm with the help of chefs at a Brighton hotel.
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After making a meal under the guidance of Alan White, executive chef at The Grand Brighton the students also learned about working in hotel kitchens and the hotel industry.

Andi Hirons, people director at The Grand, gave the students an overview about the different opportunities available at the hotel and in hospitality in general, and Mr White explained the personal attributes they look for in kitchen staff.

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During the cook along, Mr White demonstrated and supported the students to make eggs benedict.

He said: “It was an absolute pleasure to work with such passionate, focused and exciting students from Woodlands Meed College.

“The energy on the session was amazing, they did a brilliant job preparing the classic eggs benedict.

“I was very proud to be part of the session, thank you! 

“Keep it cooking guys.” 

Both Andi and Alan have worked at The Grand Brighton for 15 years and were able to give the students a very clear insight in to the working life of a hotel and the passion they felt for the hotel and the industry.

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Alan was able to see online what the students had made and was impressed by their effort and enthusiasm.

He gave feedback on how some of the plates could be improved and tips for next time.

Andi Hirons said: “What a fabulous session!

“Key to our success at The Grand is working in the local community providing opportunities and access to careers for adults who may perceive these to be out of reach.

“We strive to provide innovative work experience offerings to inspire young students from diverse backgrounds, into a career in hospitality.

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“Our ‘taste of hospitality’ hands-on sessions play a key role in showcasing the skills required outside of an academic background.

“These events often lead to meaningful work experience placements, prior to securing paid employment with us.

“We are keen to develop partnerships with colleges and schools to ensure that students with learning disabilities know they are valued in the workplace, and can reach their full potential.”

The students said they enjoyed; learning about what jobs they do at the hotel’, ;the cooking and the eating’, and that they ‘liked the chef’.

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Adam Rowland, headteacher at Woodlands Meed, said: “Meaningful encounters with workplaces like The Grand Brighton give our students the opportunity to see different careers and workplaces that might interest them in the future.

“Being able to do a virtual cook along with Alan and hear from Andi about working life in a hotel was really appreciated by the students and staff who took part.

“Thank you to Andi and Alan in making this such a positive experience for our students.”