Alumni Success – How The Yarrow hotel builds careers

If you’ve wondered where your career path might lead after College, here’s an option for your future.  

The Yarrow hotel, located on campus, has been a unique training venue for students since it opened its doors. It’s just one of the many places where our students and alumni can achieve their dreams, through working with the hotel’s dedicated staff who all have years of industry experience. 

Today, we’ve caught up with four former students who’ve turned their experiences into thriving careers. Their stories show how the skills gained at College can open many doors, whether that be at the Yarrow or in the wider worlds of Catering, Hospitality and Beauty. 

Eleanor Boyce – Sous Chef 

Eleanor Boyce, now a Sous Chef, studied Catering at EKC Broadstairs College. Her typical day involves prepping for the evening shift, collaborating with her team, and ensuring a smooth service. Her dedication and talent have seen her rise through the ranks, and she will mark nearly six years at The Yarrow this August.  

Reflecting on her journey, Eleanor said: “I went to the College for three years and then did some work experience here at The Yarrow. They offered me a little job on the side, and they liked me and saw potential. At College, I was able to put my practical skills to use and build on my basic skills. You never stop learning as a Chef. 

“The first time I ran a service and sent out the food, I was the boss which was a great feeling. In the future, I’m going traveling and am hoping to find work in Australia, exploring other cuisines. I’m still going to be a Chef, as this is what I love doing.” 

Eleanor has cherished the opportunity to learn leadership roles, pick up new skills, and interact with a wide range of people. Her travel plans are a result of feeling confident in the skills she has grown both at The Yarrow and during her time at College.  

Joe Ireland – Head Barman 

Joe Ireland, the Head Barman at The Yarrow, studied Hospitality at EKC Broadstairs College. His journey began at 16, where he supported hotel breakfasts and afternoon teas by making coffees and teas for customers.  

“The support was amazing. The hotel helped to direct me in where I could go job-wise and how to improve,” Joe reflects. Now 22, Joe has been at The Yarrow for almost seven years and was promoted to Head Barman in late 2023. 

In his role, Joe is responsible for changing menus, creating seasonal cocktails, and anticipating customer preferences. “For the foreseeable future, I love being here. My ultimate dream is to have a wine shop in Canada.”  

Joe advises those looking for a successful career, to work hard and to find a balance between enjoying the workplace and striving towards their goals. “Looking back, you need that balance of enjoying what you do with having a clear focus on your future. Working here has benefited me not just in my career, but it also has made me mature and I’ve gained a mentality of looking after myself.”  

Sophie Falanga – Beauty Therapist 

Sophie, a Beauty Therapist at The Yarrow, completed Level 2 and Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualifications at EKC Broadstairs College. During her work placement, she performed treatments on hotel guests and practiced alongside experienced therapists. After this, Sophie was offered a weekend job, which evolved into her current full-time position. 

She appreciated the opportunity to enhance her treatments and discover her career aspirations, saying: “I loved improving my treatments and learning what I wanted to do in my career. The Yarrow supported me with my studies as it helped me with in-person experience with clients. 

“My work placement helped me get into spa salon environments and taught me what I wanted to do in my career. My advice to current students is use your initiative, do what you’re learning at college, and listen to the advice you’re given as this is invaluable.”  

She plans to continue in her beauty role, providing a variety of treatments, including massages.  

Chris Stevens – Assistant Food and Beverage Manager 

 Chris Stevens, the Assistant Food and Beverage Manager at The Yarrow, studied Catering at EKC Broadstairs College. His career at The Yarrow has been over a period of four and a half years, beginning as a food and beverage team member. “I graduated from College when the hotel first opened. Being quite young, it took me time to learn my skills, and now I’m someone that students and staff can look up to.” 

After seeing what Chris was skilled at and what he was capable of, mentors at College guided him towards his current path. “If it wasn’t for certain individuals at College, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Natalie Stone, the Industry Liaison Officer at College, played such a big part in my future and really pushed this opportunity to me, for which I am so grateful.  

“Even if it’s just another stepping stone into a career, there are so many different departments you can learn from. My favourite part of working here is that you see everyone all the time and get to know the guests personally. It’s thrilling to see students develop and to help them gain confidence.”  

Looking to the future, Chris aspires to become a hotel manager, inspired by the General Manager, Lee Osborn who has long been his role model.   

The work experiences offered through The Yarrow have proven to be instrumental in setting students up for success. In areas such as Business, Hospitality, Catering, and Hair and Beauty, these opportunities allow students to apply their College learning in a real-world setting. By working closely with industry professionals, students enhance their technical skills, build confidence, and develop leadership abilities.  

These experiences not only help them secure employment but also provide a strong foundation for their future careers, whether they are running a kitchen, managing a team or serving guests. 

Explore our courses and learn more about how the Yarrow and other industry experiences help students achieve their goals.