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.”

Bury College is proud to work with employers to help them secure fresh new talent and invest in the future of the workforce. Our industry specialists and educational experts are on-hand to support you as you grow your business and develop your staff. Click here for more information: https://burycollege.ac.uk/employers/employer-welcome

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

Upcoming Events

Calendar Open Event: Ages 16-18, Adult Courses, and University Centre 15th October 2026
Calendar Open Event: Ages 16-18, Adult Courses, and University Centre 24th November 2026

Latest News

Bury College Dental Apprentice employer smiling at the camera inside the dental practice

Bury College proudly collaborates with local businesses to create opportunities for learners to gain valuable experience in the workplace. One of those businesses is Brandlesholme Dentistry, who currently employ Apprentices through the College.

A former Bury College adult learner smiling at the camera in a hairdressing salon

Read about Laura’s journey from adult learner to business owner.

students stood against congratulations signs on results day

Read about the incredible achievements of our students on Results Day 2026. Hear their success stories, see their reactions, and find out what makes Bury College such a proud place to learn.

Bury College Apprentices in class

Are you a small business owner interested in taking on a school leaver Apprentice? Here is everything you need to know about the new incentive payments that may be available to you.

Adult learner at Bury College smiling at the camera

A Bury College adult learner has transformed her life and career, progressing from Level 2 Counselling on to running her own private practice, which has recently been shortlisted for a business award.

artwork on display at the art exhibition

Bury College's annual Art and Design Exhibition celebrated the creativity, talent and achievements of students across a range of creative disciplines. Showcasing work in photography, graphic design, games art and mixed media, the exhibition highlighted how students are using creativity to explore contemporary issues, develop professional skills and prepare for exciting futures in the creative industries.