After a long wait we were finally able to celebrate the 10th anniversary of running The Villa at Wrea Green. This annual event started as part of the GCSE in Hospitality, it proved to be such a success that after the GCSE was no longer offered, we continued to put the event on.
Students research the position they would like to have and write a letter of application. If they are successful at this stage they then have an interview and are given the position that best suits them. The positions range from Head Chef and Restaurant Manager to Chefs and waiting on staff. This year’s Head Chef was Jessica Pinder and Restaurant Manager was Francesca Schofield, they did an amazing job of leading their teams, so much so that 4 students were offered jobs and have trial shifts over half term. Well done to them and good luck.
Over the years we have had special guests from MasterChef, Paralympic Athletes and even Ranvir Singh. Themes have ranged from Christmas to Lancashire Day and celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the end of WW1. This year our invited guest Mr Parsons, ex deputy head and co-founder of our event was unable to attend, we hope he will be able to join us next year. Our theme this year was a mixture of previous themes and our menu consisted of Leek and Potato soup with a cheese scone, Chicken St Aidan’s, a succulent chicken breast stuffed with cream cheese and sun dried tomatoes, wrapped in bacon, and served with fondant potatoes and seasonal veg. The dessert was Schwarzwalder Kirsch torte and Tarte au Citron. The menu was thoroughly enjoyed by our guests who numbered 161, a record for us.
On the evening, our talented music students provided the entertainment, organised by Flo Maskery and accompanied by Mr Trev Markland. The entertainment ranged from Violinists to Cellist’s and pianists to singers, they were all amazing.
We always hold a raffle at the event to raise money for our chosen charity of the year, this year we chose The Macmillan Windmill Unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, raising a staggering £675. Thanks to A&G Precision of Preesall for donating the star prize of a Television.
Lydia McNab Yr 9 wrote:
A week ago, I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to work, learn and enjoy myself at The Villa in Wrea Green. Through my school St Aidan’s I was able to work as a waitress for the night, which I found to be such an eye-opening experience.
At first I was nervous as the event was like nothing I’ve ever done before. However, I was soon put at ease by teachers like Mrs Rossall and experienced work staff at The Villa who guided us through the night. Thanks to them we were able to complete the roles of chef, waiters and waitresses with great professionalism.
I’ve absolutely loved the experience I had and made lots of new friends! I will without a doubt continue to do this event until I leave Saint Aidan’s in year 11.
Overall, this was an excellent evening, thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part or came and dined with us. We hope you will come and join us next year on Thursday 13.10.2022.