Thurso High School student Darren Napier completed the Hospitality Intermediate 1 Skills For Work course, and is now studying the subject at SVQ level with The North Highland College.

"We did a lot of baking tarts, pizzas, apple pies, pancakes, and scones.  We had to organise a coffee morning for the public which was attended by about forty people. We had to work as a team for this, doing the organising as well as baking all the food. I had the opportunity to come in and help serve food at other events too - which was nice."

"On the SVQ course we are now learning about customer care and the importance of working as part of a team. We prepare soup and sandwich lunches and have more responsibility than last year. I plan to come back to the college for another year in the hospitality area."

Darren's lecturer said, "Darren has been and still is an enthusiastic student, participating in many hospitality functions and events. During the Intermediate 1 course Darren learned new cooking skills which he has since put to good use. In November 2007 he was the winner of the college heat of the 'Future Chef' and went on to become the  runner up for Caithness and Sutherland. Darren shows the positive attitude needed to be a good student and to become an excellent chef in the future."

Darren Napier's photos ...