Alumni Spotlight - Siobhan Campbell
“Never give up because only you can do it!”
After looking for a career change, Siobhan ended up back at UHI Perth as a mature student with a goal of upskilling and expanding her existing skillset. With thanks to our Food Studies department, she is now successfully running her own business. She chatted to us about her experience 🧁👇
Can you introduce yourself?
Siobhan Campbell and I am a mother of two from Perth. I run a patisserie business from home offering bespoke cakes and wedding cakes.
What course did you study at UHI Perth?
I started college on the Level 6 Professional Cookery and worked my way up to HND, which I completed this year, and I graduated in October 2024.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I came to college straight from school to do hairdressing, which I completed in 2012. So, when I was looking for a change in career path during lockdown when I was creating bakes and decorations from home, I sought out UHI Perth knowing they had a great nursery for my son - it was a great option at the time.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before coming to college, we were mostly all in lockdown but before this I was working at a cleaning company.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I loved cooking, baking, and I love decorating - so professional fine dine cooking seemed like the best option. Also, it was the course that had patisserie cakes and bread within the timetable which is what I was most invested in.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing was having an active restaurant kitchen to be a part of, as well as all the great teaching and support received.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Fantastic memories from each and every incredible trip we were given - London, meals out, and amazing learning opportunities. But most of all - getting to work beside the amazing chefs in the Michelin star Andrew Fairlie kitchen. Those opportunities I will always remember.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
I gained a lot of management and leadership skills, especially during the last two years. Each class had methods for managing and running a business, which for me was great.
Did you undertake a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I did, I assisted with the Aramark overseas intensive training that took place over a few weeks in the UHI Perth kitchen - I helped teach and assist the lecturers in their training. This reiterated my own learning, and helping people train was confidence building.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
The staff support was amazing. They helped us through each learning obstacle and went over things that we were struggling with. Also, the support from other lecturers was also incredible. I felt that they are all invested in each student’s journey and really care about the person themselves.
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
They were great. The nursery was an asset to the college and helped me over many years of study. Also having learning helpers and support workers was very helpful.
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
I received the Gleneagles Quaich Cup at the 2021 Prizegiving Ceremony. This was a great achievement and invited me into the Andrew Fairlie kitchen which started my college journey to fine dining Michelin star cooking.
Upon starting your course, did you have a clear idea of the career path you wanted to follow after UHI Perth?
Not at all and I am still really stuck on which direction to go. There are a lot of options, but with kids, I have to take the most practical ones. Working from home is great, as well as being flexible.
Are you currently employed?
I have a business called SL Patisserie. It started off as cakes and cupcakes for any occasion and now I have more products to offer since being at college. For the future, I plan to be in the wedding industry with cakes, favours, and treats (and possibly desserts) but I feel I have the most to gain out of this industry and it is forever growing.
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career?
College for me was to learn the science behind baking and cooking, why specific things happen and how to fix them. I believe this was taught, and as well as all the other things I have learnt over the years, that information will be most valuable to use within my business.
What were the steps you took from graduation to your current role?
Not many, I was already established before I finished college, but I do believe now I have time to put into my work and make things great.
Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
I see myself as a wedding vendor for cakes and large-scale patisserie orders - this would be my goal.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I loved studying at UHI Perth, every day was a highlight, and I could not have asked for a better group of people to help teach me.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Try and try again! Never give up because only you can do it for you!
