Mia serves up success with Professional Cookery course

At 28, Mia Ambridge decided it was time to pursue her passion. Now, just weeks away from completing the Level 3 Professional Cookery course at East Sussex College, she’s reflecting on a journey that’s sharpened her culinary skills, boosted her confidence and opened the door to new opportunities.

A mature student with a long-standing interest in food, Mia says returning to education was a big step — but one she’s never regretted.

“I initially worked in finance for most of my twenties but had developed an interest in cooking at home. I started documenting the dishes I made, and started to see an improvement as I went,” said Mia.

“I wasn’t going anywhere in my career, and I had no passion for it so I decided to take a leap of faith and quit my job to pursue a career as a chef. I wanted to learn as much as possible, so I looked into courses at the college, finding that Professional Cookery appealed to me the most.”

The course has given Mia the chance to explore a wide range of culinary techniques and develop the professional standards needed to thrive in the industry. From knife skills and kitchen management to complex dishes and presentation, she’s built a strong foundation in both classic and contemporary cooking.

But for Mia, the benefits have gone far beyond the kitchen.

“The course has helped me in so many ways. When I first started, I might have known how to cook somewhat, but I certainly didn’t know the techniques or why I was doing what I was doing. The course built up the foundation to take my cooking skills to the next level. It also helped me build my confidence as a chef, and to trust my intuition.”

One of Mia’s standout moments on the course came during the alumni dinners, where students had the chance to work alongside former learners who are now active in the industry.

“My highlights would have to include the alumni dinners. To meet other chefs in the industry and help them to prepare and finish their dishes is such an amazing thing to be a part of. Knowing that they started where I am now, and have been so successful, is hugely encouraging.”

Returning to the classroom as a mature student wasn’t without its challenges, but Mia soon found her place and even became a mentor figure to others on the course.

“I think the initial challenge I faced was getting past the idea that I was going ‘back to school’. It was a strange concept for me at 27 years old, and I worried that I would feel far removed from the other students. But they were all lovely, and I like to think I’ve fallen into the role of a mentor for a few of them.”

Mia’s journey is a powerful example of how adult education can offer fresh starts and real results. As she looks ahead to completing her qualification, she’s excited about the next chapter — and is already stepping into a full-time chef role thanks to her college experience.

“Once the course is finished, I’m going straight into full time work at my job, Cru in Eastbourne. I really have the college to thank for getting the job in the first place as it was the result of my work experience week. Not to mention that without the course in the first place, I wouldn’t have had the knowledge to succeed in the kitchen I’m currently in. I’ve been able to apply the knowledge I’ve gained successfully, and doors have opened for me, so I’m really grateful for that.”

If you’re interested in studying a Catering course at East Sussex College, click here!