Catherine’s Recipe for Success

As Gateshead College celebrates 80 years of shaping futures, Catherine shares her inspiring story from studying Professional Cookery to teaching the next generation of chefs.

“I was a student here 12 years ago,” Catherine begins. “My favourite memory? Definitely the staff and students. Everyone had so much energy, and the staff were so friendly, it made the whole experience amazing.”

Catherine loved the variety her course offered. “I was only here for one year, but we packed so much in: different cookery techniques, trips to London, competitions, and even running a pop-up restaurant in the college restaurant. Every week brought something new and exciting.”

After completing her course, Catherine’s career took her to one of the most prestigious kitchens in the world: The Ritz in London. “Working at The Ritz was incredible. I learned so much, especially on afternoon tea and desserts. It was a highlight of my career.”

Her passion for food and sharing knowledge led her back to Gateshead College as a lecturer. “I’d done some teaching at cookery schools and loved it. When this opportunity came up to return to Gateshead College, I jumped at it. Teaching students who want to work in the industry is so rewarding, you can really help them take that next step.”

Catherine describes Gateshead College in three words: fun, friendly, inclusive.

She believes the college’s success over 80 years comes down to its people and its focus on employability. “The staff are amazing, some are still here from when I was a student. And our employability edge means students leave ready for work.”

Her advice for future students? “Get stuck in! Say yes to everything—trips, competitions, opportunities. Teachers love enthusiastic students.”

Looking ahead, Catherine hopes the college continues to grow with industry needs. “The food industry in the North East is booming, and we need to train people for those jobs.”