Students from Bury College Catering, Travel and Tourism and Public Services courses recently undertook a career-enhancing industry placement at one of the UK’s biggest sporting events in the Grand National.

As millions across the world were tuned in to watch the race, those students were working behind the scenes within various elements of the Grand National’s operation. This included the world-renowned Jockey Club.

Bushra Iqbal, one of the students who was on placement, added: “I really enjoyed my placement at the Grand National as I was working in the VIP restaurant. It was an amazing experience!”

Nina Lundy, Recruitment and Training Officer at the Jockey Club, said: “I came to Bury College in November and presented to a large group of students. I then came back in the new year to speak to all the students who had successfully completed all their online training and invited them to come and work at the Grand National Festival. The excitement in the students was building with so many questions being asked.  

“Many managers and lead chefs have been to see me regarding the students and asked that we ensure the team return next year. I hope they all enjoyed it as much as we loved having them on our team and can’t wait to welcome them back at our future events.”

Victoria Hinsley, Employer Engagement and Skills Consultant at Bury College, added: “Since last summer, planning has taken place in partnership with the Jockey Club to provide 60 of our students with a fantastic opportunity to work at one of the biggest sporting events, the Grand National.  They worked for three consecutive days at the Aintree racecourse and did themselves and the College proud. This was all in the fast-paced kitchens with renowned chefs, and they also provided an outstanding waiting service to the 150,000 spectators across the whole event. Thanks to the Jockey Club, our students have had the chance to boost their employability skills, and they now have a fantastic employer on their CVs.”

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Students on their way to Grand National.
Guest speaker talking to students