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Secret Diner at HMP Sudbury with Fred Sirieix

share October 16, 2024Posted by: Jenna

Learners at HMP Sudbury, taking our catering and hospitality courses, recently hosted a fine dining experience at the prison’s “Secret Diner.” The event, organised by The Right Course, saw 60 guests served by the learners, with support from Michelin-trained chef Lee and owner Kate from Restaurant Lovage, who provided professional guidance throughout the day.

The Right Course, a charity founded by Fred Sirieix, organised this event to showcase the skills of the learners. It is an initiative  in collaboration between PeoplePlus and the Ministry of Justice, designed to upskill prisoners and reduce reoffending rates through practical training and job readiness.

Watch the Video from the Night

By collaborating with the Employment Advisory Board (EAB) at New Futures Network, the event was attended by over 60 employers and community stakeholders, invited specifically to explore the potential for offering job opportunities to learners either during their Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL) or upon their full release. The aim is to create real employment pathways for the men as they transition back into society.

Fred Sirieix emphasised the partnership’s importance, noting that the goal is to provide the men with the skills, confidence, and work experience necessary to reduce the chances of reoffending. The focus is not only on the technical skills gained but also on the soft skills that help individuals adapt to life outside prison.

Tutors at PeoplePlus are working with the learners to give them qualifications and training in catering, hospitality, and front-of-house services, including barista qualifications. The Secret Diner is open to the public, providing regular opportunities for the men to put their skills into practice by cooking and serving meals to real customers. However, the event with Fred Sirieix and the Lovage team offered something extra, elevating the experience with a three-course silver service meal for the invited guests.

The presence of Michelin-standard chefs added a level of professionalism, helping the learners produce exceptional dishes while refining their service skills. The event served as a real-world showcase of what the men have learned and their readiness to enter the workforce.

Simon Sheehan, CEO of The Right Course, summed up the night’s goal: “Employers are here to see what the learners can do, their potential, and how this experience can lead to real job opportunities for them after prison.”

Adrian our catering tutor commented, “It's not just about the job. We also focus on building the confidence and morale of the prisoners, which is crucial for their long-term success after release.”

Fred Sirieix closed the evening by offering advice and encouragement to the learners, motivating them to pursue careers in hospitality and to see their time at HMP Sudbury as a stepping stone to a brighter future.

Any employers who are interested in working with HMP Sudbury or any of our other prisons, to offer opportunities for prisoners on ROTL or release, can email [email protected] for more information.

share October 16, 2024Posted by: Jenna

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