WORK experience proved to be pure gold after waiting on at a Tony Hadley evening landed a catering student a full-time job.
Darlington College student Harold Cutting was working at the five star Rockliffe Hall, helping prepare for the two-day event for the former lead singer of Spandau Ballet.
The 17-year-old Darlington student, who is studying VRQ2 diploma in professional cookery, served food, wine and water at the prestigious event.
His kitchen and front of house skills were so impressive that the Hurworth luxury hotel, golf course, brasserie and spa offered him a further week’s work experience and now a permanent position in the events team.
Harold said: “I started cooking with my nan and I help my mother most days. I really enjoyed working in the brasserie and the Tony Hadley event was amazing. So I couldn’t believe it when they offered me a full-time job.
“I enjoy talking to people and would love to work front of house one day in a nice hotel and restaurant in London. We are so lucky to have Rockliffe Hall on our doorstep.”
Darlington College tutor Dawn Cobb-Neate said: “Harold started with us on Level 1 and had such a successful year that he came back to us to study a VRQ2 Level 2.
“As well as helping with the Tony Hadley event he also worked on the Boney M evening and he did so well. It is amazing to think he will be working as part of the events team.
“It is remarkable just how much he has come on during his time at Darlington College. As he has gained new skills and further knowledge during his training his confidence and self belief have grown. He is such a positive, happy person, he will be a fabulous member of staff at Rockliffe Hall.”
For more information on opportunities at Darlington College visit www.darlington.ac.uk.