Hospitality students at Wiltshire College & University Centre are celebrating after restaurants at both the Trowbridge and Salisbury campuses were awarded prestigious AA rosettes.
The White Horse in Trowbridge and The Wessex in Salisbury earned the accolades following a visit from AA inspectors, placing them among just a handful of college-run restaurants in the region recognised by the national scheme.
Inspectors sampled a two-course lunch prepared by Level 2 and 3 Professional Cookery students and served by Level 1 Culinary Skills students. Their report highlighted outstanding value, excellent cooking and impressive service.
In Trowbridge, inspectors praised a ‘personable team with plenty of smiles and a positive attitude’ and said the food ‘exceeded expectations’. The dining room was described as having ‘a real energy and buzz’ and ‘superb value’.
In Salisbury, staff were noted as ‘smiley, chatty and proactive’ with the French apple tart singled out for special praise as ‘well made with the pastry case delivering the expected textural contrast’.
Students at both sites were also commended for their menu knowledge and attentiveness, with inspectors welcoming the strong promotion of locally sourced and freshly prepared dishes.
The college also secured a Silver rating from People 1st International for the quality of training and support offered through its hospitality programmes.
Steve Lloyd, Deputy Head of Department for Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, said the achievements reflect the students’ talent and hard work.
“To win AA rosettes for both restaurants is really pleasing,” said Steve, “I am thrilled for the students because they deserve it. They put the hard work in and now they have been rewarded for it.”
He added, “It highlights that we are a great place to come and eat but also an attractive place to learn. These awards are a testament to the quality of both food and service that our students provide.”
The college has strengthened its industry links in recent years, including collaborating with the Kaleidoscope Group, owners of Bishopstrow Hotel near Warminster, to offer workplace experience.
There are currently 35 hospitality students working across the two restaurants and many are expected to pursue careers in hotel and restaurant kitchens.
The White Horse is open for lunch every Wednesday, while The Wessex serves lunch every Tuesday. A two-course meal is £12, with three courses at £14.
Bookings are available via
The Wessex: 01722 344253 / email hidden; JavaScript is required
The White Horse: 01225 756254 / email hidden; JavaScript is required
Families can also explore hospitality courses at www.wiltshire.ac.uk
