On Friday the 13th of February, our Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Professional Cookery students took part in an inspirational visit to Gravetye Manor Hotel, a bespoke speciality, 5-star, 2 Michelin Key hotel with a restaurant that holds a Michelin Star.
Whilst there, they had the opportunity to tour the hotel and facilities with the Hotel General Manager, Paul Skinner, and the kitchen and restaurant facilities with one of the Executive Chefs, Martin Carabott. The Chef spoke to the students about the expectations of new employees and explained how he came into catering, which helped to inspire and enlighten the students.
They were then treated to a set, three-course lunch in the private dining room off the main restaurant. Prior to sitting down, the Executive Chef set them a flavour and taste challenge, and the task of providing an evaluation of the dining experience they had at Gravetye Manor, from the time they were greeted at arrival to when they left the hotel after the meal.
This task helped the students understand the whole dining experience and appreciate it. The students went on the trip not fully realising what to expect or the standards they would see, and a little sceptical and but left feeling inspired for their future careers.
