During Futures Week, we welcomed alumni Tom, a talented young chef, to share his story and inspire our Early College Transfer (ECT) students. Previously an ECT student at Calderdale College, Tom is now crafting winning recipes as Chef de Partie at The Brick Yard restaurant.

The Brick Yard is a Mediterranean, British fusion restaurant nestled in the heart of Brighouse. Serving up the nation’s favourite Sunday lunch with a twist, it has been voted as one of the top 50 Sunday roast spots in the UK by The Good Food Guide.

On the day, Tom delivered an interactive session which included a Q&A session for the students to discover where a Catering course could take them and a demonstration on how to safely cure salmon through industry-standard culinary techniques.

Tom said: “I took my love for cooking to the next level during the pandemic, I found myself experimenting with different flavours and foods and coming up with all sorts of culinary creations. From then, I knew I wanted to go into the hospitality industry and become a chef.

“I initially joined Calderdale College as an Early College Transfer student on a Catering course and this is really where my career ambitions really took off.

“The course has contributed hugely to helping me make my mark in the cooking world. I have gained both essential and transferrable skills to prepare me for any kitchen environment. Not only that, the value of being able to successfully work in a team while practicing organisational and communication skills has been a massive help when the kitchen gets a bit hectic!

“I secured my role at The Brick Yard after completing my course. At the time, I was working at a vegan café in Huddersfield and was ready to take my next step in industry. I handed in my CV, came in for a trial shift and from there, was offered the job! I knew The Brick Yard was where I wanted to be. I am learning so much and it is a whole different experience learning and working with other food enthusiasts.”

Tom’s passion for cooking is a mixture of raw talent, attention to detail and taste for success! Tom is continuing to develop his career at The Brick Yard and hopes to one day open up his own restaurant.

At Calderdale College’s industry-standard kitchens, Cuisine 1893, you will take away all the key cooking techniques, ingredients knowledge and food safety practices you need to succeed in your career. Our expert tutors have a combined 50 years experience in the hospitality industry and are here to share their tips and tricks in the kitchen with you!

Want to study a Catering course at Calderdale College? Click here to find out more.

*Pictured, Jordan, our Hospitality and Catering Lecturer, with Tom.