Dylan Nelson

Chef de Partie, Langley Castle Hotel, Hexham

Dylan began his career journey at Bishop Auckland College at the age of 16, following his GCSEs. He initially completed an Introduction to Culinary Skills Level 1 programme before progressing and successfully completing his Diploma in Professional Cookery at Level 2 and 3.

During his studies, Dylan completed a work placement at the award-winning Langley Castle Hotel in Hexham and was delighted to be offered his first Chef de Partie role straight from college!

Executive General Manager Margaret Livingstone-Evans said “In recent years, it has been very difficult to recruit committed, reliable and keen employees in the hospitality and catering industry. Bishop Auckland College was very proactive in matching a student to fill our skills gap.

"Dylan joined us on placement at the end of his Level 2 programme. During this time, Dylan has approached his role with enthusiasm, is willing to learn and is a super employee. The team at Langley Castle were very impressed with his culinary skills and we were delighted to offer Dylan full-time permanent employment following completion of his Level 3.”

Dylan said: “I have a passion for cooking and always wanted a career as a chef. My tutor on the course was fantastic and I really enjoyed my studies at college which equipped me with the skills to enter the world of work.

"With the support of the Student Progression Team who helped me produce a CV and arranged my work placement at Langley Castle, I was delighted to be offered my first role at the end of my training. My work placement allowed me to ‘learn on the job’ and provided an excellent taster to the catering industry, which is a very busy environment.

"I work with a great team at Langley Castle, who are very supportive and encourage me to be creative. I suggested a new dish to the Head Chef and this has now been added to the dinner menu, which I am very proud of. I would say to all students to take every opportunity you can as this opens doors for your future career. I am now on my pathway to becoming a Head Chef.”