Leamington Spa College and Hotel Partners address Brexit Challenge Head On

As headlines are made by  the potential impact of Brexit on the region’s tourism economy, WCG’s Royal Leamington Spa College is playing its part in addressing the issue head on.

This September the College is launching a Level 3 Diploma in Hotel, Tourism and Destination Management which has been enthusiastically welcomed by leading figures in the Midlands.  

Andy Townsend, Chair of Heart of England, UK Hospitality, said that the new course is “One of the most exciting opportunities ever, for young people looking for a global career.”  

Steven Quick, Operations Director at Hogarths Hotel added:

“Since being formed 15 years ago, Hogarths have been committed to developing their team, working with local schools and colleges, and preparing people for a career in hospitality.  We are delighted to be working with and supporting WCG and making a real difference to the students.”

Director of Curriculum at WCG, Neil Coker, explained:

“Warwickshire and the Midlands are a huge part of tourism in the UK and internationally. With an unrivalled breadth of attractions everything from William Shakespeare to a Space Centre, there is enormous potential to attract even more visitors to boost the local economy.  Hotels and Destinations are hungry for new talent to support their ambitions with innovation, energy and passion. Thousands of jobs are being created in this sector, right now.

“To make sure this ambition is matched by talented, skilled staff, Leamington Spa College is creating a brand new learning experience for the next generation of managers, marketers, event organisers, and the whole range of opportunities that this sector offers.”

The students’ experience will include industry mentoring, real life working briefs and 30 days of meaningful Industry Placement each year.  This means the students apply what they learn in a working context straight away. Part of their induction will take place in a working hotel and they will experience every aspect of running a busy hotel.     

Neil Coker added:

“Our partners in the industry are very excited about this new development and are keen to offer hands-on experiences for students so that when they start their career they can hit the ground running.”

Among the big names in tourism supporting WCG are Hand Picked Hotels, Bespoke Hotels, the Institute of Hospitality and Eden Hotel Group whose Managing Director, Mark Chambers concluded:

“The biggest challenge we face in running our business, and across the broader industry, is human resourcing and we are delighted to work in partnership with WCG to provide students with real industry work experience via this new diploma course.  Improving the skills pipeline through education is a key strategic thread for us and therefore, the introduction of this new qualification will be a good foundation in aiding and addressing this issue.”

For those interested in applying for the new course, or if you are an industry lead and require more information, then please email Neil  Suitable applicants will be invited to interview where their passion and commitment to a career in hospitality will be assessed.