MEDIA RELEASE
November 2009
WellTech tutor Jim Collins
Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) continues to build its reputation abroad for excellence in education. The
largest culinary school in the country and a Centre of Vocational Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism, WelTec is
taking its recipe for success to the world - most recently to Asia.
Cookery tutor Jim Collins set off for Bali on November 15 to take part in a tutor exchange as part of a formalised
agreement with leading Bali hospitality and tourism education college Sekolah Tinggi Pariwisata Bali (STP Bali).
The two week visit is the second trip for Mr Collins since the inception of the exchange two years ago. “The exchange
has been a whole new cultural and culinary experience for me. It is interesting to see how the different schools operate
and it offers the chance to learn from each other which is what it’s all about.”
Mr Collins is no stranger to produce from the Asia-Pacific Rim. A two time winner of the Island Influence Culinary
Competition, he is expecting the exchange will provide some food for thought for competition work. “It’s pure culinary
enjoyment; I love the flavours and the style and I will be looking for dishes that inspire me.”
The partnership with STP Bali is one of a number that WelTec is developing around the world in locations including Asia,
America, Europe, South America and the Pacific. “It’s important for students to gain an international perspective as
part their education” says Mr Collins. "Employers increasingly want people who have an understanding of the wider world
and those students who don’t travel still gain this perspective from visiting students and tutors.”
ENDS