Restaurants run by hospitality students at Wiltshire College & University Centre have been recognised with prestigious AA rosettes following inspections earlier this year.
The White Horse restaurant at the college’s Trowbridge campus and The Wessex restaurant in Salisbury are among only a small number of college restaurants in the region to receive the award from the nationally recognised AA scheme, which has rated food quality and service since 1968.
Inspectors visited both restaurants in March, where they were served a two-course lunch prepared by Level 2 and 3 Professional Cookery students and served by Level 1 Culinary Skills students, all working in industry-standard kitchens.
At The White Horse, inspectors praised the dining room staff as “a personable team with plenty of smiles and a positive attitude” and described the restaurant as having “a real energy and buzz”. They added that the “quality and consistency of the food was very impressive, exceeding expectations”.
In Salisbury, staff at The Wessex were described as “smiley, chatty and proactive”, with inspectors highlighting the French apple tart dessert as a standout, describing it as a “very good end to the meal”.
Students at both restaurants were also commended for their menu knowledge, attentiveness and professionalism during service.
Steve Lloyd, Deputy Head of Department for Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, said the awards were a significant achievement for the students.
“To win AA rosettes for both restaurants is really pleasing,” he said. “I am thrilled for the students because they deserve it. They work hard and have now been rewarded for it.
“These awards show we are a great place to come and eat, but also a great place to learn, with students gaining real experience in a professional environment.”
The college has also received a Silver rating from national training consultant People 1st International, recognising the quality of education and support offered to students.
There are currently 35 hospitality students based across the Trowbridge and Salisbury campuses, many of whom are expected to progress into careers in the hospitality industry.
Both restaurants are open to the public during term time, offering good-value lunches prepared and served by students as part of their training.
Pictured: Hospitality students with their AA Rosettes at The White Horse restaurant in Trowbridge and The Wessex restaurant in Salisbury.
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