AN EVESHAM hotel has opened its doors to South Worcestershire College where students have been studying for their Level 3 National Diploma in hospitality.

The Wood Norton, today a sumptuous wedding and conference centre, was built by exiled French royalty, the Doc D'Orleans, in 1897.

In 1930 it was bought by the BBC and the grounds became home to purpose-built broadcasting studios averaging 1,300 programmes a week.

The hotel's sales manager, Katie Butterworth, lead the hospitality master class in April, providing the group of 12 local students with a real insight into its running and its overarching sales and marketing strategy.

As part of this insight, Ms Butterworth provided a guided tour of the hotel, and invited students to ask questions about different room types, its food and beverage offering, and wider events, conference and wedding facilities.

Claire Beaman, course tutor and assistant director of curriculum at South Worcestershire College, said: “Having the opportunity for students to be able to put their learning into context through first hand experiences in hospitality is extremely beneficial and adds value to their programme of study.”

“Through the excellent visit arranged by Katie and her team at The Wood Norton, students were able to observe the running of a local hotel, experience for themselves the range of different rooms and facilities, but also benefit from speaking to hospitality professionals like Katie, who through her presentation has significantly supported their studies.”

The students who visited The Wood Norton are currently in the first year of their Level 3 Extended National Diploma in hospitality. They will go on to complete their qualification in summer 2017 with many interested in pursuing careers within hotel sales, marketing and events roles.

Ms Butterworth added: "Here at The Wood Norton we aim to provide as much support to the local community as possible. I was delighted to meet the students and hope that their tour of the hotel has opened their eyes to different roles within hospitality. Many of them asked great questions, and I am in no doubt they will excel in their studies and thereafter.”