Four hospitality students from Ealing's University of West London (UWL) have gained valuable real-world experience after being invited to work alongside some of Europe's leading Michelin-starred chefs at the French Ambassador's residence in Kensington.

The students, from UWL's renowned London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, were selected to assist at a prestigious event organised by the French Tourism Board. It provided an opportunity to experience the demands of professional fine dining while learning directly from internationally recognised culinary experts.

The students — Shannon Bu, Zain Williams, Fashlia Salwa and John Rondez — worked with Michelin-starred chefs Pascal Aussignac of Club Gascon in London, Joël Césari of La Chaumière in France, and Gilles Quillot, Executive Chef at the French Embassy and an Honorary Fellow of UWL.

Working in a high-pressure professional kitchen gave the students first-hand experience of preparing and presenting dishes to exacting standards while developing teamwork, confidence and technical skills.

Student Fashlia Salwa described the experience as unforgettable, explaining that the chefs were welcoming and supportive throughout the event. She said the opportunity taught her the importance of precision, consistency and remaining calm under pressure — skills that will benefit her future career in hospitality.

Senior Lecturer Nathan Vasanthan said experiences like these allow students to deepen their understanding of French gastronomy while preparing them for careers within the international hospitality industry.

The achievement also highlights the growing reputation of the University of West London's hospitality programmes, which regularly provide students with opportunities to work alongside some of the UK's leading chefs and restaurants.

For Ealing residents, it's another reminder that world-class culinary talent is being developed locally, with students representing the borough on an international stage.