Students with learning disabilities celebrate after successfully finishing catering course

Local charity, Eddie’s, who offer support to people with learning disabilities, has celebrated the graduation of its catering and hospitality course students.

Nine students, aged 19-25, completed a two year course to achieve the Gateway Certificate for skills in hospitality and catering.

The course, that has been running for 17 years, is a collaboration between Eddie’s, Cambridge Regional College, and St John’s College.

James Davies, 18, from Soham, said he loved to cook so signed up to the course and now feels more independent. The course helped him focus for longer which he says will help him in the future.

Elizabeth Felton, 25, from Ely, signed up to the course to gain qualifications, self-confidence and new skills.

She said she most enjoyed working alongside the professional chefs and during her course became much more confident and independent.

Elizabeth plans to enrol on a one year supported internship course at Cambridge Regional College.

Mitchell Whitley, 20, from Waterbeach, wanted to learn new skills. He says his knife skills have vastly improved in the kitchen and has enjoyed trips out while also feeling more confident.

Students completed coursework and practical work in the catering department at St John’s College, working in the kitchen, student canteen and Fellows’ dining room alongside the professional staff.

Eddie’s support with pastoral care, workwear and securing work experience.

Cambridge Regional College, is responsible for delivering the qualifications, teaching, learning and assessment of the programme and offer the on-course learning support and welfare support of the students.

St John’s College provide the classroom space and the practical work within the catering department.

All the organisations work together to ensure a safe working environment, sharing knowledge and information where appropriate.