During his visit, Tommy shared his remarkable journey from his days as a student at East Sussex College to becoming a leading figure in the culinary world.
In a 90-minute session, Tommy engaged with students through an inspiring presentation, a lively Q&A, and an interactive demonstration with Australian ingredients. His stories about working at the famous 3 Michelin star Waterside Inn at Bray with top chefs Alain Roux and Fabrice Uhryn really grabbed the students' attention.
Speaking about returning to East Sussex College, Tommy said, “It was good! There’s new signage, new facilities, but in a way it feels like nothing has changed! The heart of it is still there!
“Ken [Tommy’s former tutor] has been such a pivotal person in my professional career, he’s been the most influential mentor I’ve had. It’s great to see him still cooking and passing on his wisdom to the next generation! It was great seeing how engaged everyone was, and the number of students that attended. Plenty of people came up to try and taste what I’d made.”
Tommy also discussed his path to success in Australia’s competitive culinary scene, offering valuable advice to aspiring chefs. On advice he’d give to future students, Tommy said, “It’s hard! You’ll miss out on social gatherings, but it can be the most rewarding thing you do as well. There’s an opportunity for travel, to be a national champion and representing your country on an international level through food.
“You can make the best friendships, I still keep in touch with people from my course here! You sacrifice a lot but it’s worth it in the end. If you’re a nice person, if you’re pushing yourself hard, then it’s noticed and then reciprocated by the chefs. The chefs will put in more effort to you and your career.”
Tommy expressed his excitement to give back to his former college, even suggesting the possibility of collaborating on a special evening dinner at Kings restaurant during his next visit to the UK. This would provide a unique enrichment opportunity for students to work alongside him in creating a bespoke menu.
His visit not only inspired students but also demonstrated the exceptional career progression that is possible through East Sussex College's programmes.
Tommy said, "I wouldn't have won the awards, tested myself, cooked at the highest standard of 3 Michelin stars, or become the National Champion Australian Professional Chef Of The Year 2024 if it wasn't for Ken Ellis's mentorship, advice, and constant encouragement and the strong foundation I learnt at Sussex Downs College [now East Sussex College]."
If you’d like to find out more about studying Hospitality & Catering at East Sussex College, please click here to find out more.
11 February 2025
During the trip, students visited Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Galicia Jewish Museum, Krakow’s Jewish District, Schindler’s Factory Museum, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
11 February 2025
Archie's success story highlights the value of apprenticeships in providing hands-on experience.
10 February 2025
Louise’s journey highlights the power of apprenticeships in opening doors to career advancement and personal growth.