Experiencing work, during work experience in a hotel kitchen!

Experiencing work, during work experience in a hotel kitchen!

The landscape has shifted dramatically for schools over recent years; educational settings are facing very real challenges, challenges which show no signs of unfolding. Fusing what is learnt in the classroom with real and purposeful learning is essential if we are to grow a generation that can apply their skills to benefit themselves and the social and economic economy.  

The future of our young people will be full of competition for careers, especially if we look locally and specifically at the Leisure and Hospitality sector in the lead up to 2020. Our young people will need a competitive advantage; as a hotel we know first-hand that opportunities which raise their aspirations and inspire them,  will give them just those chances. Paul Doidge, Head Chef explains:  

"Work experience is a vital element within our practice; although the classroom lessons are vital, there is nothing like getting in a kitchen and living your dream of being a chef. These are the next generation that will create new and exciting ways of chefing and I for one am keen to inspire, enable and empower that transformation in a young person. Once you see in them that they now see their value - there is nothing quite like it. Being in a position where we can see that we have played a small role in connecting them to their future is a position I am proud to be in." 

The South West is home to some inspirational small businesses. These small businesses provide the perfect platform to turn passions into professions. The New Continental Hotel feel that we are really well placed to support schools and educational settings to create and grow young people's ability to truly unlock their potential and see their value. Upon doing this, the young people see the importance of what they learn in the classroom, but more that this they can see how it can be applied in their future. 

"Not so many years ago, we had a work experience student in our kitchen, much like those that we have this week and next. He was hungry to make a career for himself as a chef and his talent was clear to see. Today you can find him at the Treby Arms as their Junior Sous Chef. Who knows where the pupils over the next two weeks will be in years to come, but I hope doing something that they love, somewhere that appreciates their skill." 

We have loved having this weeks pupils in the Hotel. Thank you to Coombe Dean and Torbridge for the opportunity.