College strengthens global links through South Korean partnership

Burton and South Derbyshire College recently celebrated its longstanding international partnership with Jeonju Kijeon College by hosting a special hospitality evening.

Held at the College’s Mulberry Restaurant, the event welcomed visiting professors from Jeonju Kijeon College, host families and local employers who support BSDC’s international learners.

The evening was an opportunity to thank those who play a vital role in helping students from South Korea settle into life in the UK and make the most of their time at the College.

Guests enjoyed a three-course dining experience celebrating Korean cuisine and hospitality, created through a collaboration between BSDC’s catering team and visiting professors from Jeonju Kijeon College.

The evening also highlighted the continued success of the partnership and its positive impact on students, staff and the wider community.

The celebrations continued the following day with a Korean food experience for students at lunchtime.

Catering and Hospitality students worked alongside the visiting professors to prepare Korean fried chicken, giving them the opportunity to develop new culinary techniques and gain hands-on experience of authentic Korean cooking.

Visiting professors also delivered a specialist masterclass at the College’s Innovations Hair and Beauty Salon, showcasing Korean beauty trends, techniques and treatments.

The interactive session provided students with valuable insight into international beauty practices, while helping them develop their practical skills and broaden their understanding of global industry trends.

For more than a decade, the partnership between Burton and South Derbyshire College and Jeonju Kijeon College has enabled groups of South Korean students to study in Burton through bespoke programmes, while BSDC learners have benefited from international exchanges and wider global learning opportunities.

The success of the partnership is supported by local host families and employers, whose ongoing involvement helps international learners adapt to life in the UK while gaining valuable cultural and professional experience.

Through events such as this, the College continues to recognise the importance of community collaboration in promoting international education and cultural exchange.

Amrit Virk, assistant principal at Burton and South Derbyshire College said: “It was fantastic to celebrate our valued partnership with Jeonju Kijeon College and welcome our visiting professors, host families and employer partners to the College.

“The evening reflected the strength of our international collaboration and the positive impact it continues to have on our students, staff and wider community.”