A refugee, who fled to the UK three years ago and was widowed soon afterwards, has qualified as a baker.

Ghidey Berhane made history when she became the first refugee to graduate from Notts-based School of Artisan Food.

The 37-year-old, who lives in the city, left her home in the African country Eritrea, after years of war, conflict and until this month a closed border.

Ghidey threw herself into an advanced diploma in baking at the culinary school in Welbeck, north Notts - an intensive full-time course.

“I have lots of knowledge of baking and happy memories,” said Ghidey, who has a particular passion for baking sourdough.

“I want to get more experience of working as a baker and eventually open my own business.”

Ghidey was one of a number of graduates who studied the six-month diploma designed to equip students with both the practical and business skills needed to launch a career in artisan baking.

She faced several issues following the death of her husband shortly after she arrived in the UK but with the help of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum, Ghidey was able to take up a fully funded place on the diploma.

The school’s founder Alison Swan Parente said: “We are delighted to see Ghidey successfully graduate and hope this will stand her in good stead for the future.

“As a charitable trust, we look forward to working in partnership with the refugee forum to provide access to more refugees looking to retrain or learn new skills that will enable them to find meaningful employment in the UK.”

The refugee bursary was awarded by the Whitaker Charitable Trust and Janey Whitaker, who attended the graduation, said: “I’m so pleased that our charity was able to support Ghidey and it is lovely to see her graduate with her brother and friend to cheer her on.”

The school regularly runs open days for potential students. Next dates are November 23, January 26, February 23, and March 22, with students able to start the six-month course in either April or Oct 2019.

For more information and to book a place on an open day, visit schoolofartisanfood.org/product/open-day