A group of year 10 students from Springwood High School enjoyed a unique behind-the-scenes experience of professional cookery, as part of a takeover event at the Novus restaurant at the King’s Lynn campus.
The students had the chance to step into the roles of trainee chefs and front-of-house staff, learning from current CWA hospitality learners to produce and deliver a full-service dinner to their guests. Over the course of the day, students developed practical skills in food preparation, kitchen organisation, hospitality service and teamwork; all under the guidance of industry-trained lecturers.
Tasks included preparing dishes from scratch and coordinating service between the kitchen and dining room, ensuring guests received a high standard of food and customer care. For many of the students, it was their first experience of working in a professional kitchen environment, and the event gave them valuable insight into the careers and further training opportunities available at the College within hospitality and catering.
College of West Anglia lecturers praised the students’ professionalism and commitment during the takeover, noting the positive attitude and enthusiasm they brought to every task.
The Novus takeover initiative is part of CWA’s wider approach to raising aspirations and giving young people practical insight into career pathways. By opening its professional training restaurant to school partnerships, the College continues to create meaningful opportunities that connect classroom learning with real industry experience, helping local students to build confidence and make informed decisions about their futures.