Famous chef cooks up a storm at Waterlooville college

So it was a huge privilege – and a chance to pick up tips of the trade – as Angela Hartnett MBE worked with professional cookery students at South Downs College in Waterlooville.

The 47-year-old, who has appeared on numerous television shows including The Great British Menu, got in the kitchen with the budding young chefs to cook for an evening of canapes and gourmet dishes at the South Downs College Restaurant.

The Angela Hartnett Culinary Academy partnered with South Downs College a year ago.

The link provides aspiring executive chefs, pastry chefs, sommeliers and restaurant managers with an opportunity to work with some of the best chefs in the industry while studying for their vocational qualification.

Eight lucky students were given the chance to work closely with Angela, as well as other talented chefs, including Luke Holder, Pip Lacey, Neil Borthwick and Sam Williams.

Dan Russell, 19, a Level Three student on the professional cookery programme at South Downs, said: ‘The whole day and evening was brilliant.

‘This is my third year at South Downs College and has been my favourite by far, where I’ve learnt the most and enjoyed it the most.

‘This past year I’ve been able to do more fine dining evenings at the college restaurant, using different techniques. We’ve worked with a few celebrity chefs now and they’re really approachable. They are brutally honest, which is good!’

Angela, whose cuisine is inspired by her Italian heritage, said: ‘It’s been good working with the students, who have all been very keen and helpful.

‘I linked my academy with South Downs College because it helps us to recruit, is an opportunity to “give something back” and because South Downs College Restaurant is considered one of the best in the country. Lecturer Iain Baillie is wonderful.’