Students Serve Up Success at Scottish Parliament

HND Professional Cookery and Hospitality students from City of Glasgow College demonstrated their skills at a prestigious dinner service recently held in the Scottish Parliament’s Members’ Restaurant.

Seven students — four from Professional Cookery and three from Hospitality — delivered an unforgettable evening by designing, preparing, and serving a refined three-course menu for an audience that included leaders from some of Scotland’s top hospitality organisations. The event was the result of a months-long collaboration led by Curriculum Head Kirsty Mill, supported by lecturers Frazer McGarry, Robbie Phillips, and Hayley McCook.

The bespoke menu, crafted entirely by the cookery students, celebrated seasonal Scottish produce and innovation. Guests began with oat and treacle soda bread and malted butter, followed by a starter of sea trout with dill buttermilk and spring greens. The main course featured lamb loin with barley risotto, cauliflower purée, pickled florets, and fresh herb crumb. Dessert offered a sophisticated pairing of mulled cheddar custard with brioche toast, pickled walnut, and pear, alongside a strawberry, yoghurt, and spelt dish.

In total, the students served 30 covers in one of the country’s most high-profile dining venues — a challenging and valuable opportunity to refine their practical skills, professionalism, and confidence in a commercial environment.

The College hosted a dedicated table at the event, welcoming key partners who have supported student learning throughout the year. Among them were Elaine Watson, Back of House Manager at Gleneagles Hotel; Peter Cairns, HR Manager at AC Marriott; Stephen Montgomery, Director of the Scottish Hospitality Group; and Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UK Hospitality. Their attendance celebrated the strong partnership between education and industry that underpins the College’s approach.

Following the event, the College received a personal note of commendation from Fiona Cherry, one of the invited guests. Writing on behalf of her group of seven, she praised the overall quality of the evening and singled out the service delivered by Hospitality student Maurizio Crolla:

“Maurizio was attentive, without being intrusive, confident and observant. In short, his attention to detail is to be praised — a view expressed by all seven of us. We were unanimous in commending the food and the exemplary service.”

She also expressed appreciation for the full team, highlighting the professionalism and high standards maintained throughout the evening.

The Scottish Parliament dinner stands as another example of City of Glasgow College’s commitment to immersive, hands-on learning and employer engagement — preparing students for success in the modern hospitality industry.