Darlington College Students Acquire Thai Culinary Skills in Bangkok

Eighteen catering students from Darlington College learned Thai culinary skills during a 15-day trip to Bangkok, funded by the Turing Scheme. The experience inspired reflections on living abroad, highlighted by personal stories from students and staff. They will host an Asian-themed buffet on March 11 to share their learning with the community.

Students from Darlington College experienced an enlightening adventure in Bangkok, Thailand, focusing on Thai culinary skills. Over a span of 15 days, eighteen catering students, alongside three faculty members, immersed themselves in the rich culinary traditions of Thailand, an experience funded by the Department for Education’s Turing Scheme. Their education included a certification from Suan Dusit University as part of the London-Bangkok World City Links initiative.

Tina Snowball, a mature student and learning support worker at Darlington College, expressed deep appreciation for the trip, pondering retirement in Thailand. “It was the first time I’d been to South East Asia and I loved it. I can’t wait to go back. It was brilliant, incredible, and I am thinking of retiring there,” she remarked. Snowball highlighted the warm hospitality of the Thai people and her lifelong passion for cooking as reasons for her inspiration.

Similarly, 17-year-old Alisha Goddard from Catterick Garrison found the experience transformative. “It was the first time I had been to Asia and I didn’t want to come back. I now don’t want to stay in the UK, and this has encouraged me to work abroad, possibly on cruise ships,” she stated, emphasizing her desire to explore beyond the UK.

Darlington College lecturer Dawn Cobb praised the students’ engagement, noting, “The trip was absolutely incredible and our students threw themselves into the Thai food culture with such enthusiasm. The Thai people were the perfect hosts, and we all learned such a lot from the whole experience.”

To celebrate their journey, the students will host an Asian themed buffet at the college’s Glasshouse Restaurant on March 11, starting at 6:30 PM. Guests will enjoy dishes learned during their trip to Thailand. For reservations, individuals may call 01325 503188/503050 or email [email protected].

The trip to Thailand provided Darlington College students with invaluable culinary experiences, enhancing their skills and inspiring them to consider future opportunities abroad. The heartfelt reflections of Tina Snowball and Alisha Goddard capture the significance of cultural exchange and passion for cooking. Their upcoming buffet is an exciting opportunity to share their journey and newfound knowledge with the community.

Original Source: www.thenorthernecho.co.uk