Chelmsley Wood culinary school hoardings | News | University College Birmingham

July 2025

Chelmsley Wood culinary school makes its mark

By Claire Huggins

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The Chelmsley Wood culinary school and eatery is set to make its mark in the coming weeks as the new hoardings are installed.

Featuring four different panels, each has a tale to tell and brings to life what visitors to the centre can expect once the school and the eatery are open.

The main image is a composite of how the hoardings will look when installed. The silhouetted figure demonstrates the scale of the artwork and is destined to be a real talking point. Inside, work continues as Rhino Interiors Group, in partnership with University College Birmingham, bring the venues to life.

The first panel introduces the name of the two sites, illustrated with aspirational images of students and complemented by an artist's impression of the eatery.

Chelmsley Starters

Here's where students begin their journey. Whether they're just starting out or refreshing their skills, Chelmsley Starters reflects the ambition and future focus of the culinary school, right in the heart of Chelmsley Wood.

The year-long course will suit 16-18-year-olds (the certificate) and for those aged 19 and over, the award is a short course, lasting up to eight weeks.

Both courses are full-time and, subject to eligibility, are fully funded, meaning the student has nothing to pay for an expert-led, hands-on teaching experience.

Bluebell Wood

Take a walk around Chelmsley Wood and the neighbouring Smith's Wood and, at the right time of year, you won't have to go far to find bluebells. The delicate blue flowers that remain are the legacy of the wood that once stood on the site of the shopping centre and surrounding estates.

The eatery that will open here offers visitors an affordable, daytime dining experience that's as fresh and seasonal as the flowers in the name.

"I've enjoyed working with schools and organisations across the area to promote our Chelmsley Starters courses. Both adults and young people will learn in a practical, professional hospitality environment. Next door, visitors can reap the rewards of the students’ hard work in Bluebell Wood. It’s win-win"

Adam Pickett Interim Head of Department and chef lecturer

Panel two features support from Glynn Purnell.

Published author and known to millions for his TV appearances on programmes like the BBC's 'Saturday Morning Kitchen', as well as for his prolific and respected ongoing contribution to the culinary arts, first and foremost Glynn is a local lad, hailing from Chelmsley Wood.

Panel three offers more detail on what students can expect from the course, as well as the chance to 'register your interest' in the courses by scanning the QR code.

Finally, panel four marks the location of the entrance to Bluebell Wood and features testimony from Yasmine Selwood. Yasmine is a former University College Birmingham student and now lecturer, who went on to reach the quarter-final stage of MasterChef: The Professionals.