Suffolk New College students take over Kesgrave restaurant for gala dinner

Why it matters: The annual event gives students real-world experience in the hospitality industry, with three participants from last year's dinner now employed at the venue.

The details: Students from catering and hospitality courses helped create the meal, served drinks and waited tables in The Hangar restaurant over two days. Those studying floristry created table decorations, while music students performed throughout the celebration.

What the staff are saying: Events co-ordinator Charlotte Rossiter said: "These events give our students real life experiences of the industries they want to work in. They were able to create an event for over 100 guests under the guidance of the amazing Milsoms team."

Head chef Geoff Johnson said: "Last year we took on three people who are now working with us in front-of-house roles. And this year we have seen some catering and hospitality stars of the future."

Meanwhile, Principal and CEO Alan Pease described the collaboration as "a great opportunity for our students to test their skills in a commercial setting. We are very grateful to Milsom Hotels & Restaurants and indeed all of our industry partners for their ongoing support."

What the students are saying: Bella Peto, 17, from Ipswich, a level three professional cookery student who helped prepare food for the event, said: "We have been working with chefs at Milsoms. It's been fun to get new experiences. It's good for the CV."

George Eales, 16, from Ipswich, performed with his band Love for Money at the event. The level three music student added, "We jumped at the opportunity to play this gig. It was exciting. Suffolk New College has given me lots of opportunities."

The bottom line: The partnership between Suffolk New College and Milsoms demonstrates the value of industry collaboration in preparing students for careers in hospitality.

With the sector facing skills shortages, such initiatives provide a vital bridge between education and employment, giving young people hands-on experience whilst showcasing their talents to potential employers.