ITVET Culinary Students Mark Graduation with Fine Dining Showcase

Four students enrolled in ITVET Belize City’s Food Preparation Program reached an important milestone today as they completed their final assessment for the two-year course. As part of the assessment, the students hosted a fine dining experience, preparing and serving a five-course meal for invited guests. The project allowed them to demonstrate the culinary techniques, planning, and preparation skills they have gained throughout their training. Culinary Instructor and Program Coordinator Stephanie Crawford, who guided the students throughout the program, says the experience prepares them for opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry.

Stephanie Crawford, Instructor/ Chef: “We had lots of wonderful students. They are fast learners and I am so proud of them. I have three of my students who are already doing their own little business at home, two of them doing bread and bun and the other one doing cinnamon rolls on the weekends. So I am so proud of them and I enjoyed my time with them and I’m going to miss them. The prepping was a bit tedious for me and them but it was fun at the same time and we kept on schedule and everything worked out fine even though we all had a bit of anxiety for today we pulled through. A message for my students is what I keep telling them to keep the confidence , to have that passion and to always do their best no matter what. Whatever even they’re doing, whatever job they’re doing in the cooking field do your best even if you’re nervous just keep the confidence and the confidence will show in that way.”

Following the assessment, the students showcased their ability to manage a professional dining experience, from preparation to presentation. Student Rebecca Nicholson says the program has provided her with valuable experience and helped prepare her for the next steps in her culinary journey.

Rebecca Nicholson, Student: “Well when we heard we had a final project it was kind of frightening. We were worrying about all the stuff we had to do but from the days of preparation it came easier and easier. Our teacher helped us a lot. She is there step by step if we need anything answered she was really supportive with us. So it was challenging but say at the end. Currently I am doing my own business at home on weekends where I make cinnamon rolls and it’s very successful. A couple words that my chef always said to me that I need to have confidence in the things that I do because sometimes I am afraid because I don’t want to make mistakes but you need to learn from the mistakes that you make to be better.”

For the students, the completion of the program represents a step forward as they begin pursuing careers in Belize’s culinary and hospitality sectors./