A celebration was held at the Heath Centre, Oak Tree Lane Estate, Mansfield, as eight students graduated from a bespoke catering course that offered them a unique learning experience.

Oak Tree Neighbourhood Management team and community partners, including Framework and Sure Start, ran the project for residents, including the long-term unemployed and young parents.

The 10-week course helped the students obtain experience and qualifications in catering and hospitality, including practical cookery sessions and Level 2 in Food Hygiene and Health and Safety. It also involved visits to the School of Artisan Food at Welbeck and West Notts College, Mansfield, and a work experience day in a school kitchen.

Heather Rabett, course co-ordinator, said: “It is amazing to see how much everyone has grown, with their skills, knowledge and confidence.

“All of the students have found the course inspiring. We have budding entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses and people who haven’t worked for a long time looking for jobs.”

Student Malcolm said: “The project has given me more confidence and I have improved my catering knowledge.”
Graduates pictured with tutor Pip Harris and course co-ordinator Heather Rabett at the Heath Centre.