A NEW range of pies has helped a student gain a full time job at Poole Bakery.

Oliver Miccoli, 23, impressed staff at the bakery, part of Addo Food Group, with his product development skills during an extended work placement.

Currently in his final year at Bournemouth and Poole College studying culinary arts, Oliver attended the bakery as part of a course trip and then secured a two-week placement, which was extended over the summer.

He was asked to create a new pie range with ingredients inspired by international cuisines. After much research and testing he developed a range that impressed the team so much that they put it into development at the site with the potential to launch in shops nationwide in the near future - a first for any work experience student at the business.

After that he was offered a full time role as a development chef, starting immediately after his graduation next year.

Finlay Nelson, managing director at Poole Bakery said: "Oliver impressed not only with his range of pies but also with his culinary talent and ability built through working in hotels and restaurants as a chef. We are so pleased to have him on board in the development team at Poole Bakery, and think he will be a real asset to the business.

“Following the success of the work placement this year, we intend to run a similar programme with the university next year, with a view to securing another job for a student from the local area.”

Oliver said: "Poole Bakery has been amazing at helping me to develop my skills and secure a job before I’ve even finished my degree, which is unusual for people my age. I’m thrilled that I now have a job I love at such a well-known company in the area."

Delighted that Addo was offering work placements to students he said: "My advice to any young person looking for work experience or a job at the moment is put yourself out there, look for things that interest you and persevere."

Initially a family business, Poole Bakery produces quality hot pies, pork pies, sausage rolls, slices and pasties for a wide range of customers and is home to the Walls brand, employing 727 people.

- DAILY ECHO