STUDENTS from Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) recently had the chance to visit the DRGNFLY restaurant in Poole to join the kitchen team and produce a range of pan-Asian canapés for over 50 hospitality professionals at a Chefs' Forum event.

Seven hospitality and catering students, who are all currently studying Level 2 or 3 qualifications at BCoT, visited the restaurant on Monday, 18 February and were treated to a demonstration of sushi-rolling and vegetable carving skills, before getting hands-on and helping the kitchen in preparing the canapés.

The Chefs' Forum aims to connect chefs and suppliers with educational institutes, with the aim to give students the opportunity to meet and liaise with local employers.

Justin Mundy, hospitality and catering lecturer at BCoT, is a member of the forum and accompanied the students to the restaurant on the day.

Speaking after the event, Andrew Avila, chef at DRGNFLY, said: "It was great to welcome the young chefs into my kitchen and showcase my knowledge acquired from working all over the world and at top restaurants in London including Noma and Sushi Samba. Being Filipino myself, I am living proof that a career in hospitality can take you around the world."

Anthony Bravo, principal of BCoT, added: "I would like to pass on my thanks to the DRGNFLY for welcoming our students into the restaurant and giving them the opportunity to gain some fantastic experience in a professional kitchen. Enrichment activities and trips like these ensure our students are able to leave BCoT ready for a successful career in their chosen industry."