Robert's story

Robert is currently in Year 12 and is studying a BTEC First Diploma in Hospitality at college. He is very interested in a career in the hospitality industry and is particularly keen to train as a chef.

Robert chose to study a vocational course at college because there are more opportunities to do practical work. He doesn't find written work easy, but has excellent practical skills and felt that a vocational course would enable him to develop these skills.

Robert is enjoying the course and has learnt about preparing food, cooking and even silver service waiting:

'I've learnt a lot about working in hospitality and we get to do quite a lot of practical work. The college has its own restaurants which the students work in, and this way we get really good experience. I'm not so keen on the silver service, but the cooking has been good.'

There has been theory work on the course, but Robert has had help in lessons from learning support assistants, which has made it easier to cope with.

Robert plans to continue at college and is considering a BTEC National Diploma in Hospitality Supervision, or an NVQ in Professional Cookery at Level 3. He hopes eventually to have his own restaurant.