Darlington College students experienced a transformative culinary journey in Thailand, where they learned Thai cooking skills. The trip, funded by the Turing Scheme, culminated in certifications from Suan Dusit University. Participants, including Tina Snowball and Alisha Goddard, expressed their aspirations for future work abroad. An Asian themed buffet on March 11 will allow students to present their learned dishes to the community.
Darlington College culinary students recently embarked on a remarkable journey to Thailand, where they immersed themselves in the art of Thai cuisine. Eighteen students from Level 2 and 3, accompanied by three staff members, spent 15 days in Bangkok, learning valuable skills funded by the Department for Education’s Turing Scheme. Their training included a certification from Suan Dusit University as part of the London-Bangkok World City Links initiative.
The trip had a profound impact on the participants, particularly on mature student Tina Snowball, who expressed a desire to retire in Thailand after experiencing the country’s culture and hospitality. “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,” Snowball remarked, highlighting her passion for cooking and the welcoming nature of the Thai people.
Seventeen-year-old Alisha Goddard shared similar sentiments, reflecting on her first visit to Asia. “It was the first time I had been to Asia and I didn’t want to come back. I loved how different it was from here and I would certainly go back. This has encouraged me to work abroad, possibly on cruise ships,” she stated.
Darlington College lecturer Dawn Cobb conveyed her pride in the students’ engagement with Thai culture, noting their enthusiasm for the culinary experience. “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,” Cobb said, emphasizing the enriching aspects of the journey.
In celebration of their experiences, students will host an Asian themed buffet on March 11 in the college Glasshouse Restaurant, beginning at 6:30 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste dishes they learned to prepare in Thailand. Reservations can be made by calling 01325 503188/503050 or by emailing glasshouse@darlington.ac.uk.
The gastronomic adventure to Thailand has profoundly influenced Darlington College students, inspiring aspirations for future endeavors in culinary arts and international work. The upcoming Asian themed buffet serves as an opportunity for students to showcase their newfound skills and share their rich experiences, demonstrating the educational value of cultural immersion.
Original Source: www.thenorthernecho.co.uk
