College upgrades on-site training kitchens

Telford College has upgraded its on‑site training kitchens after securing more than £13,000 of external funding for new industry‑standard equipment.

The college successfully bid to the Savoy Educational Trust for support to buy two state‑of‑the‑art Rational ovens to enhance the learning environment for its professional cookery students at the Wellington campus.

Staff say the new ovens – which were part-funded by the college as part of a £20,000-plus investment – have already transformed day‑to‑day teaching and assessment in the Orange Tree training kitchens.

Jodie Allen, learner manager for hospitality and catering, said: “We’re so grateful to the Savoy Educational Trust for their support. It has enabled us to purchase two fantastic new ovens which are already making a huge difference.”

The Savoy Educational Trust supports education, training and skills development across the hospitality sector.

Its grants are awarded to projects that enhance skills, knowledge and opportunities for students and professionals, driving positive change for individuals, communities and the wider industry.

Telford College says the investment will help ensure its learners are training with the same high‑quality equipment used in modern commercial kitchens, strengthening their readiness for employment and progression.

Angela Maher, chief executive of the Savoy Educational Trust, said: “We are pleased to support Telford College with this investment in industry-standard equipment.

“Access to modern training environments is so important in helping students build practical skills, confidence and experience that reflect the realities of today’s hospitality sector.

“We hope these new facilities will continue to inspire and support the next generation of hospitality professionals.”

Pictured: Georgia Skelton with the new ovens