Staff and students at Peterborough Regional College have been awarded the prestigious AA College Rosette Highly Commended.
Each year, the AA in partnership with People 1st send qualified hotel and restaurant inspectors to mystery shop the restaurant ‘Parcs’ at Peterborough Regional College, and assess them against high level industry criteria.
Their most recent visit to the College resulted in the restaurant being awarded an AA Rosette – Highly Commended, the highest award available for College’s from the AA, and an upgrade from their previous visit.
Restaurants that receive this award are recognised for having a clear brand, excellent links to industry, highly polished service levels, and high level of staff commitment to the ongoing training of the students. The inspector was particularly impressed with the live TV screen coverage of the kitchens and the confident front of house team.
The 90-seater training restaurant which is open to the public during the academic term on weekdays for lunch and on Thursday evenings for fine dining, equips catering and hospitality students with the industry knowledge and skills required for a successful career, under supervision from experienced staff. Menus available range from 3 courses and fine dining to plates of plenty, with all of the preparation, cooking and service organised and executed by the students.
Phil Sammons, Programme Area Lead in Hospitality and Catering at the College, said: “Over the last three years we have formed links with some fantastic chefs including Fred Muddiman at the local Holiday Inn, Philip Corrick, Executive Chef of Clubhouses at The Royal Automobile Club, and Will Holland at Coast in Saundersfoot, South Wales.
“These direct links have a massive impact on our curriculum delivery and boost the students in so many ways, allowing them to flourish in their chosen careers.”
Deirdra Hawkins, Academy Manager for Hospitality added: “This is a fantastic industry award for our Hospitality and Catering students and staff and a well-deserved recognition for the team. And moving up from the award to Highly Commended was just incredible news, congratulations to all involved!”
For more information and menus at Parcs training restaurant, please visit http://www.peterborough.ac.uk/public/parcs-restaurant/, call 01733 762189, or email parcs@peterborough.ac.uk.