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Double scoop for The Chesil Rectory at Annual Awards

The Chesil Rectory picked up two awards at Eastleigh College’s annual awards ceremony.

The renowned Winchester eatery won the ‘Partner of the Year’ award for the support and career-focused opportunities it provides to learners, as well championing the work of FE colleges. In addition, Michael Worth, who completed his catering course at Eastleigh College and joined Chesil Rectory in the summer, won the ‘Governors’ Award for Exceptional Progression’.

Dr Jan Edrich, Eastleigh College’s Chief Executive and Principal, said: “The evening provided a superb opportunity to celebrate outstanding successes across the College.

“We work with 2,700 employers in the region and nationally providing education, bespoke courses and training solutions. In addition, many organisations work with us to provide invaluable knowledge, insight and work experience opportunities for our students.

“Whittling the excellent relationships we have with our partners down to one winner was challenging, but The Chesil Rectory has consistently gone beyond expectation, providing exceptional enrichment opportunities, and in some cases employment, for many of our learners."

The Chesil Rectory's owner, Mark Dodd, spoke about the unique partnership that has developed since they started working with Eastleigh College five years ago. He said: "The Chesil has a long standing  partnership with Eastleigh College.

"We love to share our skills and knowledge, giving students encouragement, discipline, mentoring and guidance. It’s a lot more than just simple work experience, it’s giving these young, talented students confidence, and the invaluable opportunity to establish a career in a real-life  hospitality environment. It's a win win situation.”

Eastleigh College’s Assistant Principal Professional Studies, Lou Gittens, presented the ‘Partner of the Year’ award to The Chesil Rectory’s owner, Mark Dodd, and head chef, James Wills, while Michael Worth received his award from the College’s Chair of Governors, Jon Sendell.

Hospitality & Catering Lecturer, Greg Cheeseman’s exceptional contribution to the college and students was recognised with the ‘Staff Award for Innovation’ which was presented by VTCT’s Jon Snow.

The evening, which was organised by the College’s Event Management students, also celebrated a number of other awards for students, apprentices and staff – read more here.

Eastleigh College has 21,000 learners across the region and beyond, including full-time students, apprentices and professionals studying part-time courses; with many others engaged in leisure courses each year.