Some of the top cookery students in Cornwall have witnessed the trends that are cooking up a storm in the food sector, following a trip to a major culinary trade show.
The Source Trade Show, held at Westpoint Exhibition Centre in Exeter, gave professional cookery students at Cornwall College St Austell, the chance to explore the latest innovation in a food sector that is worth £2.6 billion annually and boasts more than 2,200 businesses and over 60,000 employees in the South West.
The group explored the variety and types of food available and researched local producers.
Former Poltair School student Lois Clinton, who is studying Level 2 Professional Cookery at the College, said it was a great “opportunity to learn about new products”.
“It was interesting to see so many vegan options there,” they said.
“I am really enjoying the course, I would definitely recommend it to other students and I plan to continue onto the Level 3 next year.”
“The facilities we have here at college are brilliant, great kitchens and Cloisters restaurant which sits up to 70 customers. I love creating dishes for real life customers to taste on a daily basis.”
The show, with over 210 exhibitors, is a great opportunity to meet key South West, UK and international food and drink producers, as well as service providers, according to Professional Cookery lecturer at Cornwall College St Austell, Caron Walwyn.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our chefs to explore new trends within the industry and meet the passionate producers face to face,” he continued.
“The show provides the perfect chance of meaningful employer engagement and it really helps the students’ confidence. They have the chance to be exposed to foods that they maybe don’t normally experience in their day-to-day lives.”
There is a Course and Careers Advice Morning at Cornwall College St Austell on Saturday 14th March 10am until Midday where the campus is open for potential students and families to look around facilities and meet lecturers.
Cornwall College is recognised as one of the best catering colleges in the UK, with Centre of Excellence status in three disciplines, accredited by People First.
For more information on the range of Catering & Hospitality courses available across The Cornwall College Group visit www.cornwall.ac.uk or call 0330 123 2523.
