Source: Edge Hotel School

Loyd Grossman was the honorary graduate at the first graduation ceremony for the Edge Hotel School at the University of Essex. The graduates completed their two-year fast track degree course in the summer, having started their studies before Wivenhoe House, the four-star hotel at the Colchester Campus, opened in the summer of 2012. Many have already landed impressive jobs all over the country, including at luxury hotels in London and Scotland.

Loyd Grossman was recognised for his work and achievements in the culinary and hospitality industry and for his extensive work on sustainability issues in the sector.

He said: "There has been a revolution in hospitality in the UK. It is now seen as more important and more professional and education is absolutely critical to its success."

The Edge Hotel School is a unique concept in higher education in the UK, created by the University of Essex and the Edge Foundation.

The undergraduates are immersed over two years in an intensive combination of hotel management theory in a classroom environment and work on rotation in all the different departments at the hotel, covering everything from housekeeping to running a wedding.

Principal Andrew Boer said: "The ceremony marks the achievement of a long term ambition and a considerable amount of very hard and sustained work.

"These graduates are our ambassadors to the commercial world and are already demonstrating how valuable Edge Hotel School students are to employers with their unique qualification."

About Edge Hotel School

Edge Hotel School combines a fantastic breadth and depth of hands-on experience with a fast track to a respected degree from the University of Essex in Hotel Management. By equipping you from the outset with professional and management skills as well as academic theory, the course aims to get you started in your career as soon as possible. A two-year, intensive programme that reflects the realities of life in the hospitality industry. You will be part of a close-knit team serving actual paying guests, you also enjoy all the advantages of University campus life, with access to student facilities and accommodation. The Edge Hotel School has a close and collaborative relationship with the industry that includes scholarships, masterclasses and sponsorship.

Heather Leathley
Media and PR Officer
01206 874714/07791 724736
Edge Hotel School