On Wednesday 19 June, the Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College celebrated the class of 2024 after two years of dedication, hard work and commitment.  

The Academy aims to nurture the region’s future generation of talented restaurateurs, chefs, restaurant managers, waiters, and front of house staff by providing high quality experiences, challenging practical and theoretical workshops and masterclasses from the best the industry has to offer.  

Michael Caines MBD DL, renowned Michelin starred chef and alumni and patron of Exeter College said; 

“Like every year, we are here to celebrate the graduation of our students who have finished two amazing years. All the students have been exceptional, they have been dedicated and embraced all elements of the course. Their commitment has been up to the name of Michael Caines, so I’m really pleased for them.  

“It’s always sad to see them go but it’s also nice to see the first year students cooking for the second year students, next year they will be graduating themselves and so the entire process continues. I am so proud that they are going off into the hospitality industry knowing they have had two amazing years.” 

Michael Caines Academy tutors at Exeter College, Ian Biggar and Paul Carne, expressed their thanks to all the supporters of the Academy which provide opportunities for the learners. Speaking about the students, they said: 

“It has been a privilege getting to know all the students and being able to work with them so that they can meet their potential. Throughout their time at college the students have done so well, achieved some outstanding results and it’s been amazing to see them flourish in their work placements.” 

Decs Moss is one of the graduating students. Decs is progressing to the Level 3 course next year whilst also working in industry. He hopes to open his own restaurant one day. Speaking about his time at College, he said; 

“My experience at College has been phenomenal. I have enjoyed so many aspects of it such as the trips, the contacts I made and the chefs I met. The friends I have made have been one of the best parts and I cannot wait to see what everyone goes on to do – whatever it is I’m sure they will be great.  

“One of the reasons I chose the Academy is because on the open day all the lecturers were so helpful and welcoming, which really helped to calm the stressful experience of deciding what course to study. Being a graduate of the Michael Caines Academy, and having that on my CV, will help with my future job opportunities. Exeter College and the Academy is such an amazing place – I am so happy I was a part of it.” 

Belle Susila is also graduating this year. She describes her College experience as bringing her genuine happiness. 

“The class that I have been with for the past two years has become a second family to me. We are so close with one another, and I guarantee I have made friends for life.  

“The Michael Caines Academy has given me so many new experiences. I have enjoyed every minute of it, going from our enrichment trips to each skills lesson at College. It has driven and prepared me for my future. With the skills that I have learnt and the passion I have seen from my lecturers and other classmates, I hope to acquire a job in the hospitality industry. I chose the Academy because of my love for cooking and my readiness to become a chef. However, I’ve learnt through this course how much I have connected with the front of house aspect and wish to continue with that.” 

“The Academy first intrigued me because of its involvement with Michael Caines himself. He has been an inspiration to me and my classmates. I have never regretted my choice of study and I hope future students get the experience and opportunities I received while at Exeter College.” 

You can visit one of the College open events in the new academic year. Register now to be the first to hear about dates. 

Find out more about the Michael Caines Academy.