Cheshire College – South & West held an extraordinary Gourmet Evening at the award-winning Academy Restaurant, featuring renowned chef Adam Thomason, England National Culinary Team Manager and Culinary Director at Restaurant Associates. The event, a collaboration between the College and Thomason, showcased a spectacular five-course set menu that delighted guests while highlighting the exceptional talents of the College’s Hospitality and Catering students.
A multi-award-winning chef with a career that spans some of the world’s finest Michelin-starred kitchens, Adam Thomason, brought his wealth of expertise to the evening, cooking alongside students and providing invaluable mentorship.
Adam commented: “The hospitality industry is a vast and dynamic field that encompasses a wide array of roles, each offering unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. “
“Our shared love for food serves as a powerful connector, allowing us to inspire and motivate the next generation of hospitality professionals. Mentoring these students not only equips them with essential skills but also nurtures their aspirations and creativity, paving the way for their future success.”
Alongside Adam, were James Newton, Regional Culinary Lead at Restaurant Associates, and Chef Jack Harrison. Their diverse perspectives and expertise enriched the culinary process, providing students with valuable insights and fostering a collaborative environment that encouraged creativity and skill development.
James noted the fantastic experience he had “Working alongside the next generation of student chefs.”
Noah Layfield, 17, an NVQ Level 3 Professional Cookery student, had the opportunity to prepare Aged Roast Sirloin of Beef, Parmesan and Gruyere Potato, Kale, Onion Puree and a Classic French Red Wine Jus.
He said “I engaged positively with Adam, and at the end of the night, he was so impressed with my work that he offered me both work experience and employment after my course finishes. I was really impressed with his methodical approach and the way he mentored me and the other chefs.”
Shane Guildford, Lecturer in Hospitality and Catering at the College said: “This event exemplifies the high standards we aim to instil in our students. Adam’s mentorship and guidance throughout the event were invaluable to them. It’s an experience they will carry with them into their future careers.”
Adam continued “The passion exhibited by the lecturers was palpable; their desire to impart knowledge and foster a rich learning environment was truly inspiring. Witnessing their dedication to teaching and mentoring the students was a joy, reinforcing the significance of nurturing talent in the hospitality sector.”
The College’s Gourmet Evenings held monthly at both the College’s Crewe and Ellesmere Port campuses, have become highly anticipated events that often sell out well in advance by the public. These evenings offer guests a unique opportunity to experience world-class dining in a dynamic and intimate setting, prepared and served by the College’s Hospitality and Catering Students.
Noah added, “Events like this allow me to network with professionals, which will help build my confidence and skill set for my future career.”
The College’s Hospitality and Catering courses provide students with crucial hands-on experiences, enabling them to work alongside industry professionals in the Academy Restaurant and at various catering events. The experiences are designed to help students refine their skills and prepare them for success in the competitive sector.
Shane added: “The ability to learn from industry leaders is a key element of our programs. It ensures that our students are not only developing the technical skills they need but also the confidence and professionalism required to thrive in this fast-paced industry.”
The College values its relationships with employers and industry professionals like Adam and is committed to maintaining these vital connections. These partnerships are key to providing students with valuable real-world experiences and potential employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
To find more information on the upcoming Gourmet Evenings held at the award-winning Academy Restaurant, visit the College’s website https://www.ccsw.ac.uk/academy-restaurants/
To make a reservation email academy@ccsw.ac.uk or call 01270 654678.
