Sunday, June 29, 2025

Nine culinary arts students from South Eastern Regional College (SERC) across its Bangor, Downpatrick, and Lisburn campuses recently embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a fully-funded unpaid placement in Nashville, USA, thanks to the Turing Scheme. The program provided them with the chance to gain invaluable international experience, which will significantly enhance their professional skills and careers.

The students, enrolled in various culinary programs such as Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery – Patisserie and Confectionery, Level 3 Diploma in Professional Chef, and Level 3 Diploma in Hospitality with Events, were paired with the King’s Hospitality Group in Tennessee. This award-winning restaurant and catering company specializes in Southern cuisine, providing the students with exposure to a diverse range of cooking styles, high-pressure environments, and the opportunity to work alongside expert chefs.

The placement offered the students an immersive experience where they had the opportunity to work closely with professionals in busy kitchens, honing their skills in various cooking techniques, ingredients, and kitchen operations. One of the significant highlights was their involvement in preparing meals for the St. Patrick’s Day Festival in Nashville, which allowed the students to showcase their knowledge while learning new skills in a high-energy setting.

Beyond the technical skills, the trip provided the students with a deeper understanding of global work practices and different culinary cultures. This firsthand experience in a professional environment not only improved their practical skills but also helped them develop key soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and adaptability, which are essential in the hospitality industry.

The experience also proved transformative for the students on a personal level. One student shared how nervous she was before the trip as it was her first time abroad. However, she soon found herself immersed in the group and even made lifelong friends. She particularly enjoyed her placement in the pastry kitchen of a five-star hotel, where she was involved in preparing intricate desserts like tuiles, macaroons, and cheesecake tartlets. The opportunity to refine her skills and work at such a high standard boosted her confidence and knowledge, encouraging her to recommend the Turing Scheme to future students.

Another student, who had never been to the United States before, recalled his two-week placement as the best experience he had ever had. He spent the first week preparing dishes for the St. Patrick’s Day Festival and the second week working at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville. He appreciated the welcoming atmosphere, stating that the team-oriented environment allowed him to quickly integrate and gain hands-on experience. He also reflected on the incredible connections he made with students from other campuses, noting that they continue to stay in touch through a dedicated WhatsApp group.

This trip also opened up new opportunities for the students. One participant, who is currently working as a camp counselor at Windsor Mountain International Summer Camp in the USA, credited the Turing trip with giving him the confidence to travel solo for the first time. The skills he gained during his placement in Nashville, such as navigating international airports and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, helped him successfully adapt to life abroad and use his cooking skills in a different context.

In addition to improving their professional skills, the students also gained essential life skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. The Turing Scheme not only provided the opportunity to develop technical abilities but also promoted self-empowerment, self-esteem, and leadership, all of which are key attributes for success in the hospitality sector.

The Turing Scheme is an important initiative that offers funding for students to undertake study or work placements worldwide, helping students build global networks, learn about different cultures, and gain practical, hands-on experience. This scheme contributes to the UK Government’s vision for a Global Britain by strengthening international connections and enhancing educational opportunities for students. By supporting such programs, institutions like SERC help their students develop a competitive edge in the global job market, ensuring they are well-prepared for future success.

Overall, this transformative experience has had a lasting impact on the students, providing them with the skills, confidence, and connections that will continue to support their professional development for years to come. The Turing Scheme remains a valuable opportunity for students to enhance their learning and broaden their horizons through international placements in a wide variety of industries.

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