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A student from the University of Brighton has realised the benefits of work placements after getting hands-on industry experience working at Park Plaza County Hall hotel in London.
International Hospitality Management student Adam Pierce was initially hesitant about taking a year-long placement, but now realises just how advantageous it has been.
“So far I have worked in food and beverage, housekeeping and spent a week in the executive office, shadowing the general manager,” said Pierce.
“The placement has changed my attitudes towards hotel management in a number of ways. It has provided me with a real insight into the day-to-day routine of managing a four-star deluxe city hotel, as well as highlighting the dedication and attention to detail required to reach the level of management to which most hospitality students aspire.”
Part of PPHE Hotel Group, the Park Plaza County Hall structures its student work placements to give participants the opportunity to work in a variety of different departments.
EMEA learning and development manager Claire Whitehouse said: “We are extremely proud of our you:niversity Plus placement programme which has been very well received by our university partners. At PPHE Hotel Group we are passionate about developing future hospitality professionals.
“Our programme offers students not only the practical experience they need to be successful, but it also develops key managerial skills along the way which will support them throughout their careers in hospitality.”
The University of Brighton provides work placements for more than 94 per cent of its undergraduate degree courses. This year, the university’s International Hospitality Management degree course has 50 students out on work placements around the world, from Cape Cod to Brisbane.
“Overall, I know now that deciding to do a work placement was a decision I’ll never regret. I am learning many important aspects of the industry that I am sure will stay with me throughout the rest of my career, as well as building some great relationships along the way,” Pierce concluded.
Image: Adam Pierce.
