Eight 14 – 16 year olds from schools across Somerset have spent six Saturday mornings at the College’s Cannington Centre undergoing training in different aspects of the food industry.
Food and Drink Lecturers at the College provided a variety of introductory sessions to the students including baking bread, designing and making their own pizzas and understanding the science behind ice cream! The students also took part in a Dragons Den event where they designed and pitched their own product.
Julie Harris, Food & Drink Course Leader said,
“This six week Food Academy has proved hugely successful and has given these year 10 and 11 students a valuable insight in to the world of food and drink, allowing them to make a more informed choice when considering their future career path.”
Malcom Pyne, owner of Somerset’s award winning master butchers Pyne’s of Somerset, presented students with their certificates at their graduation ceremony, held at the shop itself. The students were also able to experience first-hand how Pyne’s prepare and produce their award winning sausages, with the help of Malcom and his staff.
Malcom said,
“It is vital for young people to familiarise themselves with how ‘real’ food is produced. The tragedy these days is that all too many families are fed on industrial food products brought from supermarkets and which often contain hidden but frightening amounts of salt and sugar – and, of course, additives.
“Sales figures through independent shops demonstrate quite clearly that shoppers are turning back to traditional suppliers such as ourselves in their search for local, traceable and quality foods. This trend is clearly growing and I firmly believe we are on the verge of a dietary revolution in this country, which is why it is so important for students like these to understand the basics of producing honest, tasty and safe food.
“I am delighted they found the process interesting and it was a pleasure to have them here.”
Given the popularity of this course, Bridgwater College will be running a further Food Academy aimed specifically at students in Years 10 and 11. If you would like further information or to register, please contact Julie Harris by emailing foodacademy@bridgwater.ac.uk.
