Food is key to the survival of us all, and the safe production of high quality food that promotes a healthy lifestyle is top of today’s agenda. Production and distribution of food and related services, is the largest and most important economic activity in the world. The health and welfare of people everywhere depends on the reliable storage, successful processing and safe handling of all types of food.
Food professionals are in great demand and work in many occupations including industry (manufacturing, retailing and food service), universities and schools, government, research and development, quality assurance and food law enforcement. As well as animal farming and husbandry, agricultural service activities, fishing and the production process.
The industry currently employs around 400,000 people in the UK across over 6,000 businesses. If you think the food and drink industry could be a career path for you, a good way to undertake your research is by participating in some work experience. Industry led work experience provides an invaluable insight into the world of work. It allows an individual to understand the importance of meeting deadlines, communication and the level of knowledge and expectations required of you. It will also help you decide on your future career path and whether the industry you are experiencing is the right one for you.
Students Laure-Line Castor and Chloe Lunven are studying Level 3 Food Technology at Bridgwater College’s Cannington Centre and have just completed an 11 week placement at Wildes Cheese in London. Wildes Cheese manufacture a number of popular cheeses which have received critical acclaim and are constantly striving to develop new and innovative products. Our students have been fully involved in the whole cheese making process from initial concept, assessment, development and manufacture as well as packaging and sale.
During their work placement, Laue-Line and Chloe had the opportunity to work alongside owners Phil and Keith on a very special project. After many months of exhausting effort, a new high quality cheese has been created and the company has been awarded the contract to provide the cheese exclusively to Tottenham Hotspur Football Club where it will be served in the Corporate Boxes.
Bridgwater College Food and Drink Course Leader Julie Harris said,
“Our students have had a fantastic time and have learnt so much over their 11 week work placement. We encourage our students to undertake work experience to support their future decisions and this opportunity has definitely had an impact on Laure-Line and Chloe’s future career paths. The attention to detail and passion for success at Wildes Cheese is very evident and the owners Phil and Keith have been the perfect hosts and mentors for Laure-Line and Chloe.”
If you would like further information about studying Food Technology at Bridgwater College please contact Information and Guidance on 01278 441234.
