Over 40 VIP guests attended a launch dinner at The Grove Restaurant to hear about exciting plans set to transform Bradford College.
Hosted by former MasterChef finalist Exose Grant, the event showcased several of the College’s extensive construction projects, which will soon take shape.
Projects include new £3.5m vocational T Level facilities, a £6.9m refurbishment of the derelict Garden Mills, and the construction of a new £17m Future Technologies Centre on Thornton Road.
Christopher Malish, Bradford College Vice Principal Finance & Corporate Services, opened the dinner by saying, “These projects are a huge boost for the College but also a transformative investment in Bradford that supports the wider city centre development. The new facilities will allow the delivery of curricula designed to address big societal challenges, enrich our local workforce, and showcase a range of inspiring careers.”
Guest included Lorraine O’Donnell (Bradford Council CEO) and Naz Shah (Bradford West MP), as well as representatives from Couch Perry Wilkes, JCT600, and Bond Bryan Architects. Representatives from Tilbury Douglas were also present – the main contractor for Bradford College’s Garden Mills refurbishment.
Alongside a £1.2m college-funded refurbishment of the existing ATC building and new substation installation, these new facilities form part of the ambitious estates strategy – to nurture careers in vital sectors supporting regional economic growth.
During the evening, Exose Grant (former Masterchef and Bake Off The Professionals finalist) treated guests to a gourmet three-course menu prepared and delivered with Level 3 Catering and Hospitality students. The menu comprised of:
- Wye Valley Asparagus, Slow Cooked Egg, Toasted Sourdough, Crispy Parma Ham, Onion & Thyme Puree, Beer Pickled Onions and Beer Pickle Gel
- Chives and Tandoori Spiced Lamb Rump, Sweet Potato Fondant, Sweet Potato Puree, Spinach Yoghurt, Sauteed Spinach, Lamb Sauce, Garlic & Coriander Flatbread and Mint Yoghurt
- Vanilla Cheesecake, Strawberry Compote, Basil Syrup and Crumble
The event was created thanks to the College’s ongoing partnership with the Chef’s Forum – a national organisation that gives catering students vital industry experience. The Chef’s Forum provide top international chefs who visit colleges throughout the academic year. Each demonstrate techniques and share expert knowledge on a specialist topic or cuisine.
At the age of 18, Exose started his first professional chef job at James Martin in Manchester and went on to compete in Masterchef: The Professionals 2019 at the age of just 22. Then, in early 2022 at the age of 24, Exose took over the kitchen at BLVD Manchester, creating a variety of new Pan-Asian style menus. Exose’s love for learning and competition saw him enter Bake-Off in 2019.
The dinner was followed by a question-and-answer session with Exose as guests departed. Service throughout the evening was provided by Level 2 Catering and Hospitality students, under the watchful eyes of lecturer, Richard Barker.
