Unforgettable trip to Bangkok blends learning new skills with Thai culture

A two-week adventure in Thailand which blended practical training with rich cultural experiences has been described as ‘unforgettable’ by New City College students.

The 20 students, from Hospitality and Catering and Hair and Beauty courses, had the opportunity to visit the dynamic city of Bangkok, at no cost to themselves, where they developed new skills and achieved specialist qualifications.

The catering students took part in a 60-hour Thai cuisine course, where they were taught authentic Thai cooking techniques by professional chefs based in Bangkok.  They attended theory lessons at Suan Dusit University and hands-on, practical classes, where they prepared traditional dishes and sampled exciting new ingredients and flavours.

The beauty students studied the intense Level 3 CIBTAC Approved Traditional Thai Massage certificate at the Chiva-Som International Academy in Bangkok – completing 60 hours of training which covered massage techniques as well as giving them an insight into traditional Thai health and wellbeing practices.

The group achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in both cookery and massage classes.

As well as gaining these highly-regarded qualifications, which will give them the edge over other candidates when applying for jobs, the students were introduced to elements of Thai culture, deepening their understanding of local traditions and customs.

Beyond the classroom, they had the opportunity to explore the diverse sights and sounds of Thailand through sightseeing and cultural excursions, including:

• Visiting an elephant sanctuary, where they helped care for elephants who had been mistreated
• Touring the bustling markets such as Pak Kret and Thonburi Market where they learned about local life and discovered an array of exotic ingredients and products
• Relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Thailand during a trip to Wonnapha Beach

Izar Abdleguelil Bores, who is studying the Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery at Redbridge Campus, said: “The trip was incredible and it has completely changed my outlook on life. It was a great experience and was really well organised.

“The course we did at the university was fun and taught us so many things and the activities, such as the elephant sanctuary, were eye-opening for me. It was great to connect with nature and see other cultures and how people live and thrive there.

“I am extremely grateful to have been chosen for this opportunity and it has been one of the best trips I have ever been on.”

Flavio Soares Trindade Metzger, also studying Professional Cookery at Redbridge, said: “The trip was an unforgettable, amazing experience where I learned so much about the culture and history of Thailand, and the food was delicious!”

Other students described the trip as ‘life-changing’ and ‘a great insight into a different culture which was very inspiring’.

Catering and Hospitality lecturer Daniel Campos said: “This trip was a fantastic opportunity for our students and the impact it has had on their studies and personal development extends far beyond the classroom.

“From start to finish it was an immersive experience which developed their professional competencies, giving them extra qualifications, while allowing them to embrace the rich cultural heritage of Thailand.

“It offered invaluable life experiences for them, building confidence and encouraging independence and teamwork. There was a real sense of community within the group and the students developed lasting friendships and connections.”

The trip was made possible through a joint project between New City College and World City Links, using the Turing Scheme, which offers funding for educational international trips. The students just had to take their own spending money.

A spokesperson from World City Links said: “What a great team from NCC who worked so hard to deliver a Turing-funded hospitality and beauty programme in Bangkok. Students all completed their Thai Massage and Thai Cuisine qualifications with a 100 per cent pass rate and they now have powerful certificates which will enhance their employment prospects.”

Opportunities like this set New City College apart!

This amazing trip is just one example of how NCC empowers students with meaningful experiences that complement their academic studies, and ensure that students stand out in an ever-changing marketplace.

If you’re ready to broaden your horizons and experience similar trips, apply for our Hospitality & Catering or Hair & Beauty courses today and change your life with New City College.

Book an appointment for a Thai Massage or another treatment at one of our salons or try our trainee chefs’ amazing food at one of our restaurants.