Exeter College Students Shine at International Salon Culinaire
Exeter College’s hospitality and catering students have showcased their culinary excellence at the prestigious International Salon Culinaire competition, walking away with an impressive array of medals. Demonstrating both exceptional skill and professionalism, the team secured five gold, six silver, 11 bronze, and five merit awards—cementing their status as rising stars in the industry. Notably, two silver medals were also awarded Best in Show.
The students, who competed in a range of cooking and butchery challenges, received high praise from their tutor, who commended their dedication.
Deputy Head of Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, Matt Pickett, said;
“Our students performed brilliantly and were a genuine credit to the college. Not only in their cooking skills, but their professionalism, manners, and hygiene. They walked away with an incredible set of medals.”
Among the standout performers was Mia Walter, a Level 3 NVQ Hospitality and Catering Management student, who earned an outstanding five medals. Her accolades included gold for French trimming, chicken butchery, and sea bass and trout preparation. She also received silver for her avocado starter (Best in Class) and knife skills, along with a bronze for lamb butchery.
Mia scooped an impressive five medals at the competition.
Reflecting on the experience, Mia shared, “The morning was amazing. I got to try different foods, speak to professionals, and take in all the opportunities. Then I had all five competitions in a row – it was really intense. By the time I got to the lamb butchery, my arms were dead! But overall, it was an amazing experience.”
When asked why she participated, Mia explained, “I wanted to gain experience, especially with lamb butchery, which I’d never done before. I also wanted to see where I stood and how well I’m doing. Hopefully, I did pretty well!”
Looking to the future, Mia has ambitious plans to travel the world and work in high-end catering. “I’d love to work on super yachts, but first I need to get my STCW qualification. I’m also considering a free nutrition and dietitian course when I turn 19. I just want to keep gaining experience and move around the UK before I start traveling with a work visa.”
The success of Exeter College’s students at International Salon Culinaire highlights the high standards of training and dedication at the college. If you want to join us, find out more at our next Open Event.
Academy of Cheese Launches New Training Collaboration with Michael Caines Academy in Exeter
Top trainee chefs and hospitality students at the renowned Michael Caines Academy in Exeter were the first cohort to receive a full day of bespoke cheese training as part of their two-year programme.
Delivered by the Academy of Cheese and funded by Chiswick Cheese Market, the Academy’s Level One Certification course was tailored specifically for hospitality students, bringing a brand-new training experience incorporating a hands-on, practical approach to learning about cheese.
The collaboration with the Michael Caines Academy – an initiative led by Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines MBE – was an exciting opportunity for the 32 students currently studying at Exeter College. Led by Academy of Cheese Training Partner, Patrick McGuigan, the day started in the professional kitchen where the class got to make a basic ricotta cheese.
Patrick McGuigan explaining how to make a basic ricotta cheese.
The training continued in the college’s Lecture Theatre, where the 16-18 year olds were guided through a tasting of a selection of cheeses, including an award-winning Le Gruyère AOP, a Gorgonzola PDO and a clothbound cheddar from local cheesemaker Quicke’s Cheese.
“I didn’t know how complex a Gruyère could be and how versatile it is as a cheese”, commented Finn Clark, a 2nd Year Student.
The afternoon session commenced with a demonstration on cutting and wrapping cheese, focussing on portion control and how to minimise waste in a professional kitchen, and finished with a pairing masterclass in the on-site restaurant, @thirty-four, where students were inspired to play around with different cheeses and accompaniments.
This partnership marks an exciting and significant milestone in the Academy of Cheese’s mission to expand cheese education and certification across the UK, ensuring that the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals are equipped with essential cheese skills and knowledge, whilst empowering them with the confidence to incorporate cheese into their menus in thoughtful, innovative and impactful ways.
The day’s training was funded by Chiswick Cheese Market – run by a group of volunteers who are passionate supporters of the artisan cheese industry. “As a team with chefs and cookery writers amongst our midst, we know how valuable cheese is within the world of hospitality” Lucy Cufflin, co-founder of the Market explained. “We are thrilled to be supporting this collaboration between the Academy of Cheese and Michael Caines Academy, to introduce hospitality trainees to artisan and quintessential cheeses, endorsing their importance in our restaurants and associated food industries.”
The Michael Caines Academy aims to nurture the region’s future generation of talented restaurateurs, chefs, waiters and front-of-house staff by providing high-profile experiences, challenging practical and theoretical workshops and masterclasses from the best the food industry has to offer. To be accepted onto the programme, students are required to demonstrate passion, talent and promise over a two-day selection process.
Ian Biggar, Programme Lead & Tutor at Exeter College expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership; “We were thrilled to host the Academy of Cheese Level One course at the Michael Caines Academy,” adding “Patrick McGuigan’s expert guidance and infectious passion for cheese made the experience both educational and inspiring for our students. It was an unforgettable journey into the world of cheese, and we can’t wait to build on this fantastic foundation.”
Following the success of this inaugural session, the Academy of Cheese are looking to roll out their bespoke cheese training to other hospitality institutions, whilst also offering more advanced certification courses to meet the growing demand for specialist cheese knowledge.
“This partnership with the Michael Caines Academy is a huge step in our ongoing commitment to raising the standards of cheese knowledge and appreciation,” said Academy of Cheese Director, Tracey Colley. “By offering the Level One Certification to students in such an esteemed institution, we are helping foster a new generation of cheese experts who will play a key role in shaping the future of both the UK hospitality and cheese industries.”
Graduates of the Michael Caines Academy: Shaping the Future of the Hospitality Industry
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.
The graduating class of 2024.
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 cooking in kitchen with first year Michael Caines Academy students.
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.”
Chair of Governors, Bindu Arjoon and Michael Caines present Leah Attwood with her graduating certificate.
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.”
Decs Moss and Belle Susila are graduating this year.
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.”
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Prestigious Michael Caines Academy Celebrates Successful 10 Years at Exeter College
Designed for budding head chefs and those aspiring to a career in front of house, the Exeter College Michael Caines Academy gives students the opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s best. On 21 June, the College celebrated the Academy’s 10 year anniversary with a special evening dedicated to students past and present and to its patron, Michael Caines MBE.
This competitive Academy provides students with a mix of challenging practical and theoretical workshops, with high profile experiences and masterclasses from leading chefs to promote excellence in hospitality and catering. The Academy now boasts over 160 graduates with a 100% pass rate.
Michael Caines MBEDL, said;
“We had the vision 12 years ago to start the process of setting up the academy and we now have 10 yearsof graduating students, many of them making an impact on the industry. It is the right thing to do; to pause and reflect and celebrate the achievements of all these students but also the Colleges achievements in having the vision to set the academy up. The academy has been part of the excellence that has been created here for students.
“Cooking with the students at the dinner here in the College is a very special moment for me, for the graduating students, the parents and guardians, and of course the lecturers that have all added their enthusiasm and passion for nurturing this generation of students that have come through the College.”
Speaking about the Academy’s success, he said;
“It takes partnership and commitment, that’s why we have an Outstanding College here, that’s what makes colleges Outstanding. Going that extra mile for their students – it does not surprise me that Exeter College continues to grow because its focus on excellence across all the areas and the celebrations make students feel like they have been a part of something special, which of course they have. It’s a very proud moment for us all.”
Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive, John Laramy CBE, said;
“As an ex-student and Patron of the College, Michael fully understands the ambition and ethos of the College. In working with us to create the Michael Caines Academy he has embodied our pursuit of excellence.
“He is an aspirational role model for all our young people, not just those who have an interest in hospitality. His passion, energy and dedication mean that students at the College have benefited not just from his talent and expertise, but from the partnerships and networks that he has so successfully cultivated over his career. Oxford and Cambridge are often identified as the pinnacle of academic study, for me the Michael Caines Academy has set the same bar, but for the technical discipline of hospitality and catering.
“The opening of the world class Lympstone Manor has also created new opportunities for the students on the Academy. The thing that makes this Academy different is that Michael has not just added his name, he has invested his knowledge and time, which has made a massive difference to the College and our students.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Michael for his amazing and ongoing contribution to the College, his wisdom and energy have ensured this partnership has been a sector leading success. The people in the room tonight are absolute proof of that.”
During the evening guests were treated to a special three course meal, prepared by Michael and the first year Academy students. Alumni were invited to stage to talk about their experiences in the Academy and what they are doing now before graduating students were presented with certificates.
Grace Blake-Grove, 2023 Michael Caines Graduate, with Bindu Arjoon, Exeter College Chair of Governors and Michael Caines MBE
Grace Blake-Grove, graduating student, said;
“My time at the Academy has been exceptional, from the things I have learnt to the amazing lecturers and young chefs on the course with me.
“A huge highlight of the last two years was our course trip to Italy. Surrounded by all my friends, culture, and great food, it was not only an educational trip but a moment we could all bond over.
“Though I am sad to be leaving, I hope to gain a place at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, where I completed my six-week work placement this year, an opportunity I was fortunate to have received thanks to the Micheal Caines Academy.”
John Brimacombe is pastry chef for Acleaf at Boringdon Hall, who were recently awarded a Michelin Star. Speaking about his favourite memories of the Academy, he said;
“A lot of the trips were genuine fun, you become really good mates with your class. When you go to some of these incredible places, for example we went to Lucknam Park, it is a great experience with not only industry leaders but your friends as well which is pretty enjoyable.
His advice for students looking to work in the industry is;
“Just question everything and enjoy it. If you don’t enjoy it, there is no point. Have fun. There are easier jobs out there, but they aren’t as rewarding.”
Michael Caines MBE in the kitchen with Michael Caines Academy 1st year students.
Part of the success of the Academy is also due to the staff at Exeter College who work to deliver Michael’s vision and support the students through their time at College.
Ian Biggar, Programme Lead and Tutor at Exeter College, said;
“The opportunities this partnership with Michael has provided to our students is invaluable. It means we can be as confident as possible when they leave us that we have provided them with everything they need to succeed.
“The passion and drive that Michael and the team here instil in our students will see them through even the toughest days of their career.”
Paul Carne, Programme Lead at Exeter College, said;
“We are incredibly lucky to have worked with such a variety of talented students over the years who have gone on to do exceptional things and make a real impact on the hospitality industry.
“Thanks to the passion of Michael and the commitment from the College, we know this will continue and we are excited about what is to come.”
Congratulations to all our graduating students. This year’s students are;
Bethany Addicott
Oliver Ashfield-Donaldson
Grace Blake-Grove
Meg Burnell
Ellie Fairchild
Talia Hutchings
Freya Hole
Sophia Joakim
Joshua Power
Joe Sandham
Isobel Simpson
Jasmine Timms
Tomasz Waszkiewicz
Maddie Webb
Bryher Wilson
Thank you to the sponsors of this event, without their kind support, events like this would not be possible.
Deaf student secures place at chef’s prestigious academy
Deaf Academy student Oscar Mott is one step closer to achieving his dream job as a chef, thanks to securing a place at the prestigious Michael Caines Academy.
Oscar, 18, is the first deaf student to gain a place at the Michael Caines Academy, which is part of Exeter College. Achieving a place is a highly competitive process with just 16 student places on offer. It is regularly oversubscribed with around 50 student applications every year.
To celebrate Oscar’s achievement, the Deaf Academy invited Michael to visit its Exmouth campus and meet Oscar and fellow students.
Mark Stocks, deputy principal, said the Deaf Academy was very proud of Oscar. He said: “Since joining the Deaf Academy, Oscar has thrived and it has been wonderful to see him find a love of cooking, initially in his food tech classes at the Deaf Academy, and now through achieving his place at the Michael Caines Academy.
“We support our young people to grow and develop and to understand that their deafness is not a barrier to achieving their dreams and Oscar is wonderful and inspiring example of this. We’re looking forward to seeing what he goes on to achieve”
Mark Stocks – Deputy Principal of the Deaf Academy
Oscar Mott and Michael Caines
The Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. It has a focus on fine dining and its aim is for the learners to work in the highest quality establishments in the south west.
Michael Caines said staff were impressed with Oscar’s enthusiasm, as well as his cooking skills.
He added: “The process is incredibly competitive with normally 40-50 students applying and only 16 being successful. The selection is a two-day process, the first of which measures the knowledge and skills of the student, which is then followed by a formal interview on the second day. This gives the applicants an opportunity to put across their passion for the industry and show off portfolios of work.”
