UK: Cheshire College South and West students will run the Devonshire Fell Hotel for two days in February.
Students taking Professional Cooking Level 2, Professional Cooking Level 3, Food and Beverage Service Level 3, Hospitality Supervision will be responsible for managing the Devonshire Fell Hotel on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th February. The hotel belongs to the Devonshire Group of Hotels and Restaurants.
Throughout the two days, the students’ work will be supervised by members of the hotel team, who will be on hand to provide support in all aspects of running the hotel. This includes reception and check-in, food and beverage preparation and service, room service and more.
John Holden, who leads the front desk training at the university’s Academy restaurant, said: “Our students study at university and work at a renowned hotel like The Devonshire Fell really helps to equip them with the knowledge and skills they need. will require for future full-time employment.
“The hotel acquisition will be an invaluable experience for students and I am sure guests will enjoy the novelty of having talented students working hard to provide them with a memorable stay. They’ve had some hands-on practice, as our facilities include a 2AA Rosette restaurant and AA Rosette Standard Academy on our Crewe and Ellesmere Port campuses, respectively, where students learn to prepare exquisite culinary creations. We are proud to have been awarded the AA College Restaurant of the Year award for two years (2017-18 and 2019-20).”
Richard Palmer, Managing Director of The Devonshire Hotels and Restaurants Group, added: “We are delighted to invite Cheshire College students on this hands-on learning experience. Our team also looks forward to providing valuable on-the-job training and sharing their knowledge and experience.
“I can relate very much to how this will benefit students, having myself started at the company as a trainee in my late teens. In those days I worked behind the bar serving drinks. I hope the hands-on experience empowers students to embrace all that hospitality has to offer and maybe even get hooked, just like I did! I will certainly be there in February to offer my support.”
The takeover of the hotel supports the Devonshire Hospitality Academy, which is now in its second year. The 18-month program offers a mix of classroom study and online learning along with practical roles at one of the group’s hotels and inns in Yorkshire and Derbyshire.
