Our Catering and Hospitality staff and students recently attended Rainford Village Hall to accompany top chef and local councillor, James Holden for a Gala Dinner in celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III.
Nine students volunteered their time to work alongside James, preparing and serving a delectable four-course dining experience.
The College has a longstanding relationship with James, who is always eager to provide students with opportunities to showcase their talent and skills.
The event was a fitting occasion, as it was announced by the palace that the coronation celebrations would be marked with ‘The Big Help Out’, a chance to highlight the positive impact volunteering has on communities across the nation with the aim of the weekend celebrations to bring communities together and create a lasting impression.
Decked in bunting, beautifully presented table settings and a menu fit for a king, the event was a huge success, with guests handing out plenty of positive feedback and a standing applause to the team of kitchen and service staff.
Dishes included a delicious, pressed chicken and asparagus terrine appetiser, followed by an intermediate course of salmon & dill tortellini, a red wine jus and glazed root vegetable entrée, and finished with a with a classic bread and butter pudding.
Commenting on the success of the evening, James said, “I was proud to work alongside students and staff from St Helens College in preparing, cooking, and serving up the food for this occasion. A huge amount of appreciation to the College for supporting with this event, the students and staff were a real credit to the college. Enthusiastic, committed, and talented individuals who all worked together as a fantastic team.”
The dinner is one of many valuable experiences our students can participate in, allowing them to enhance their CV and preparing them for what a career in the industry.