James Purnell MP visits Tameside College

Date published: 23 February 2010

James Purnell, MP visited Tameside College recently to gain an update of what is happening at the college with it being acknowledged as a key element in the prosperity of the borough. Mr Purnell was very impressed with both the facilities and the achievements of the students while exploring the departments and observing students as they worked.
During his visit he gained essential knowledge of the work that Tameside College is currently undertaking with employers by providing training and consultancy work in relation to solving production problems.

The college offers a number of courses for students who are hoping to have a career in the hospitality trade. The catering and hospitality students put their skills to the test at the college’s own Reflections Restaurant, which is open to the public. The college’s flagship restaurant is designed to provide students with the experience they need to perform well and to meet the demands of the catering industry.

Aspiring chefs gave Mr Purnell a tour of the kitchens and showed off the Gilbert Lefevre Memorial Trophy which was presented to the Principal, Peter Ryder a week earlier by the Association Culinaire Francaise (ACF). The trophy is awarded to individuals and establishments who have distinguished themselves or who have contributed to the well-being of the association.

Following the visit Mr Purnell said, “The facilities at Tameside College are impressive; both for students and the diners. I do think most people would be surprised to find a restaurant of such a high quality within a college. By offering students the opportunity to work in a professional standard restaurant, the college gives students the chance to gain a practical insight into what is a demanding industry. And the experiences they gain in the kitchens and front of house will mean they can hit the ground running when they leave college for the workplace. It is clear that students and staff put a great deal of effort into making sure the performance of the restaurant is as outstanding as possible, and I am delighted that their success has been recognised by the Association Culinaire Francaise (ACF)”