News: Hospitality students prove they have what it takes to make it in the industry

The pressure was on for Nottingham College Hospitality Management students last night (26^th April), when they took charge at the renowned Marco Pierre White’s (MPW) restaurant for a special, one night only takeover, as part of their degree-level course.

Students were tasked with planning, organising and running their own themed evening from scratch. They have been working hard for the past six months on their business idea, being mentored by the MPW team on everything from advertising and branding to operations and costings.

Inspired by authentic tastes from dishes around the world, Nottingham diners were treated to a three-course menu devised by the students and cooked by MPW’s Head Chef, Mark Astbury and his team.



Student, Diogo Pinto, 30, is originally from Portugal and has worked in the hospitality industry for more than eight years. Alongside his studies at the College Diogo works as a receptionist at the 4-Star Mercure Nottingham City Centre Hotel.

He said: “With many of our group from different parts of Europe, we were passionate about including influences from around the world in our dishes, and they seemed to go down really well with the customers. The night went smoothly and everybody worked well as a team; using their individual strengths to support one another. I wasn’t expecting to enjoy the experience as much as I did.”

This is the fourth consecutive year that the College has collaborated with the restaurant and as a result of another successful event, the College looks forward to working together again in the future.

Restaurant Manager and former hospitality student at the College, Evans Uzezi, commented: “I was really impressed with the level of professionalism from the students. Their enthusiasm, dedication and attention to detail were all on point.

“I’ve witnessed their ideas and confidence developing throughout the process and to see all their hard work come together on the night was fantastic. I’m proud to work for a company that gives students such a great opportunity.”

If you're interested in a career in the hospitality industry, why not check out our range of courses here?