North East College Restaurant in Running for Restaurant of the Year

A student run restaurant at Newcastle College is in the running to be named AA College Restaurant of the Year, after making it through to the next crucial stage of the competition.

The popular Chefs’ Academy was awarded a Highly Commended AA College Rosette in December, qualifying it to enter the Restaurant of the Year competition.

Delivered in partnership between the AA and People 1st, the College Rosette scheme recognises quality food and exceptional service in College restaurants. The prestigious Highly Commended title is the highest level of the award and is given to those colleges with restaurants of the best quality and with notable links to industry – those which could compete within a true restaurant environment.

Dave Simpson, Restaurant Manager of The Chefs’ Academy said: “Newcastle College prides itself on delivering unique vocational education, developed in partnership with industry and with a focus on experiencing real working environments.

“The Chefs’ Academy is a vibrant, real-working environment which allows our students to hone their skills in a fine-dining setting and often alongside chefs and guests from our industry partners.

“To achieve a Highly Commended College Rosette for the restaurant and to make it through to the next round of the AA College Restaurant of the Year competition is a brilliant achievement and I have faith that our students can win the title.”

The Chefs’ Academy is the only North East college restaurant to make it past the initial round of the competition, producing a video which showcases its hospitality courses. It is one of just 15 colleges across the country to enter the next stage.

The next stage of the competition will take place at the Park Plaza County Hall in London on Thursday 20 June and will task students with delivering a presentation to the judging panel on the necessary skills for a successful career in hospitality.

The Chefs’ Academy is based in Newcastle College’s Lifestyle Academy at their Rye Hill Campus and serves lunch and dinner during term time, with regular special events hosted by guest chefs.