James - Bijou Restaurant in Carlisle

Bijou is a bistro by day and a restaurant by night on Thursday Friday and Saturday. We open from 5-7 with an early bird menu and then offer an á la carte menu from 7-9 where we serve contemporary English and French food.

"I attended Carlisle College from 2002-2004 successfully completing NVQ levels 2 & 3 in professional cookery. During my time at College I was fortunate to be part of the national winning team in the Nestlé Professional Torque d’Or competition of 2004, this success inspired me to “spread my wings”. I was always encouraged by my lecturer, Andy Stacey to push myself to the limit and this led to me working with Gordon Ramsay and Angela Hartnett at the Connaught Hotel in London. The lecturers have always supported me and continue to do so with their advice when needed.

Knowledge gained at College assisted me when developing concept ideas and business plans for my own restaurant. I have regular contact and dialogue with the catering lecturers, whom I consult on a range of issues.

I am now in a position myself to offer students employment, which I do at every opportunity, this partnership continues to blossom."