Student Story

Getting a cookery qualification has opened doors for Kian Muir and he’s looking forward to future opportunities.

Kian started working in kitchens aged 14, learning to become a cook as he worked his way up.

“But I didn’t have the qualifications. I got talking with one of the Tai Poutini Polytechnic tutors, who suggested I sign-up for the cookery programme.

“It was a really good experience. It helped me refine and develop my skills and I learned heaps. The tutors were both great and the baking experience I got really expanded what I could do.

“The amount of practical work was a really great aspect of the training. There wasn’t a day that you we’re in the kitchen learning something new. We also got involved in some fundraising for local charities which was great fun and good to be out in the community.

Kian was excited to get a job in a kitchen on Hamilton Island as soon as he finished training at the end of 2019. However, the job got cut short due to Covid-19 and he returned home.

“I’ve been working at the Blackball Hilton since I returned and have really enjoyed that. Now I’m about to start a new position as a baker at Blanchfields which I’m really looking forward to. I certainly wouldn’t have got the job without the technical skills I learned at the polytechnic.

“I’d encourage anyone thinking about applying to do the training, gain the skills and have more opportunities for the future.”