Stratford-upon-Avon College and Solihull College & University Centre are working with The Crowne Plaza in Stratford to offer a variety of training opportunities for local young people.
The Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon is a stunning hotel located beside the River Avon and just a short walk from the town centre. The relationship between the College and the hotel has gone from strength-to-strength and offers students a valuable insight into working in the hospitality and leisure industry.
The hotel is now in its fifth year offering supported internships to college students with special educational needs – with the latest cohort recently attending and celebrating their graduation. Robin Ford, General Manager, is particularly proud. He comments:
“Watching a young person walk into the hotel on day one, unsure of themselves, and then watching them grow in confidence and skill over the course of their placement, that’s some of the most rewarding work we do.
Our partnership with Stratford-upon-Avon College and Solihull College isn’t a box-ticking exercise; it’s a genuine pipeline of talent and a genuine commitment to giving young adults in our community a real route into work. We’re proud of what we’ve built with them, and we’re committed to growing it further.”
Robin has also guest lectured at the College, providing students with an insight into the leisure sector and is passionate about making the industry accessible for young people. The hotel will also soon be recruiting several hospitality apprentices, further cementing their reputation as a place where young people can thrive in a fast-paced, yet rewarding industry.
Business Development Manager at the College, Bryan Anderson, commented: “Robin and his team exemplify the very best of hospitality, delivering exceptional experiences across conferences, events, accommodation, and award-winning dining. Their commitment to quality and service is evident in everything they do.
They are also a valued partner in developing future talent, supporting careers events, work experience placements, student talks, and, most importantly, supported internships. Their ongoing commitment provides invaluable opportunities for young people who often face significant barriers to employment.
I look forward to strengthening our partnership further as we collaborate on the development of new hospitality foundation and supported apprenticeship programmes.”
