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Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

I was in the first year of my A-levels when the pandemic began, and we had to leave and do a term at home. I did Politics, History, Economics and Finance and I did enjoy them but couldn’t teach myself at home. I ended up doing well in my exams, but it wasn’t the right path for me. My mum lives near the School of Artisan Food (SAF). She found the Foundation Degree Artisan Food Production course and said I’d love it. I came in for two open days and knew it was what I wanted to do.

SAF is so nice to come to – there’s such a nice atmosphere I just love it. I really like Helen and Sheila in the Studies Team, and it has just been really good fun. The lunches are amazing. On the day we had David, we made Portuguese tarts, and it was just really good fun. I knew exactly what I was going to be doing. I’ve always baked. My grandad would supervise me baking. Even at 3 years old, I could make a cake and put it in the oven.  I know that I want to buy my own house and have a little café or tea room.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I just love being here and chatting to everyone. I especially like the ‘making’.

How do you find your modules and what have you most enjoyed studying?

I enjoyed the bread module with Kev (Head of Baking) the most and being on the SAF campus.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

I use the library – the librarian at SAF is really nice and helpful. Everyone’s always happy to help. The technical facilities are really good.

What is your top tip for someone considering studying/ living at Brackenhurst Campus? 

Things I didn’t do but would do now include going to the library and asking for help with referencing and making sure you attend all your Brackenhurst lectures! At SAF, it’s so easy to come to, and it’s easy to have a good time.

Make sure you get lunch at SAF because you’ll only get jealous if you don’t! And even though it’s full time, there’s time to get a job or even build on work experience while you study.

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve? 

For my case study, I spent 2 days in a bakery unit , Batch Bakehouse. The owner does market days at Tuxford Windmill and talking to him was really inspirational.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it? 

There’s a lovely atmosphere, you’re learning something really niche that not many people know. You’re never bored or dreading coming here, I’m always happy to come and it’s always a full day, which is nice.

What are your plans for after the course and how do you feel your course has/ will help you to achieve that goal?

I’ve applied for the Advanced Diploma at SAF to continue my hands on experience, and there’s a lady in my village who makes flower jars made with flowers that are picked and arranged - we may team up to do afternoon teas. Kev (Head of Baking) has helped with some recipes.