Posted 18 March 2026

It was great to be back at Bradford College for its annual Big Iftar. The event, which is now in its third year, took place over Ramadan and celebrated the breaking of fast with the local community. 

Held in collaboration with My Lahore – whose flagship restaurant is in Bradford – the event gave students experience of cooking and serving Asian food under the guidance of their College tutors. This provided them with valuable real-world experience of cooking in large quantities, teamwork, and communication skills, all of which will enhance their employability.  

The evening began with an introduction to The Grove, the College’s on-campus restaurant and bar. Andy Bray, who teaches Level 3 Professional Cookery at the College, then observed how much the students had gained in confidence since they started the course in September.  

Zulfi Karim, one of the College’s current students, discussed his desire to gain a formal cooking qualification. He also explained his involvement in the organisation of last September’s World Curry Festival in Bradford, during which Level 3 catering students provided canapes for guests. This was made possible due to the College’s established industry connections. 

My table had Bradford College staff on it and there was an opportunity to network before and after the food was served. I heard news of the BRIT School North coming to Bradford, which will provide a valuable progression route for creative students in the region. Offering performance and skills-based subjects, it will complement the specialist provision of Leeds Arts University and Leeds Conservatoire, which are both members of Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY). 

During networking it was also great to hear how staff recognised the need to be inclusive with access to prayer spaces and time off at Eid for students. These are some of the good practice tips that are included in the updated 2026 Ramadan guide that GHWY’s Race Equity Network helped to produce. 

I had attended the Iftar in previous years and, as always, the food was amazing and the students who were serving were attentive and friendly. Thank you Bradford College for your hospitality and holding an Iftar for the local community. I hope to be able to attend it again next year.   

 

Tahera Mayat, GHWY Collaborative Outreach Officer