Warrington & Vale Royal College secures Savoy Educational Trust grant to modernise catering facilities

The investment will enable the college to modernise its training kitchens, enhancing the delivery of Hospitality & Catering courses and ensuring students gain experience that reflects current industry standards. More than 160 students study hospitality and catering at the college each year, including both school leavers and adults, and all will benefit directly from the improvements.

The funding will provide a wide range of new, industry standard equipment, including a new Rational iCombi Pro oven, fryers, a portable induction hob, and a sous vide alongside essential professional tools such as pans, scales, and utensils. These upgrades will allow students to develop their skills using equipment commonly found in professional kitchens, strengthening their technical ability, creativity, and confidence.

By aligning training more closely with employer expectations, the project will enhance students’ readiness for employment within a competitive sector. Access to modern tools and up to date industry practices will support students to build both technical and transferable skills, improving their long-term career prospects.

The investment will also play an important role in widening access to high quality vocational training. These upgraded facilities will ensure that all students have equal access to industry relevant resources and opportunities, regardless of their background. In so doing, the project will contribute to raising aspirations, supporting progression into employment and further study, and strengthening the local hospitality workforce. 

Jayne Fox, Curriculum Manager for Hospitality & Catering, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Savoy Educational Trust for this funding. These upgrades will make a real difference to the experience our students receive. It allows us to continue delivering training that truly reflects the realities of working in professional kitchens.” 

Hospitality & Catering Lecturer, Cavan Sheppard, added: “This investment gives our students the opportunity to train in an environment that mirrors industry practice. Working with high quality, professional equipment not only improves technical skills but also builds confidence and professionalism. It is fantastic to see this level of support being invested in our students and their futures.”

Angela Maher, Chief Executive of the Savoy Educational Trust, said: “We are pleased to support Warrington & Vale Royal College in enhancing its Hospitality & Catering facilities. Access to modern, industry-relevant training environments plays an important role in helping students develop the skills, confidence and experience needed for successful careers in hospitality. Investments such as this ensure that learners are equipped with the knowledge and practical capability required by today’s employers, while strengthening the future talent pipeline for the sector.”

The project is expected to deliver long term benefits by raising aspirations, enhancing employability, and supporting community regeneration through improved access to skills and training. For Warrington & Vale Royal College students, this marks an important step forward in ensuring they are fully prepared for successful careers within the hospitality industry.