Oxford School of Hospitality Management students gain unrivalled access to internationally renowned chefs and food writers

The Oxford School of Hospitality Management has this year continued its long association with the prestigious FT Weekend Oxford Literary Festival, through which it delivers outstanding learning experiences for students.

The School works in partnership with The Oxford Cultural Collective, a cultural institute that stages the food-related events at this international festival, which this year ran from 17^th to 25^th March. Students attended events, hosted VIP guests, staged fringe events on-campus and provided general voluntary support. They are given unrivalled access to internationally renowned chefs, food writers, journalists and broadcasters.

Speaking after the festival, American food historian Dr Jessica B Harris commented: "As one who has watched the growth of Brookes presence at the Festival over the years, I can unequivocally state that this year was extraordinary. I was particularly impressed by the opportunities the Festival gave to Brookes students."

At this year's festival, students' learning experiences involved the following acclaimed contributors:

Chefs - Angela Hartnett, Fergus Henderson OBE, Margot Henderson, Jeremy Lee, Jose Pizarro, Sabrina Ghayour and Jeremiah Tower.

Writers and broadcasters - Sheila Dillon, Dr Jessica B Harris, Diana Henry, Sky McAlpine and Bee Wilson.

For Marc Millon, Patron of the Oxford Cultural Collective and successful food, wine and travel writer, there was one event in particular that stood out in terms of its education value: a lunch prepared by legendary US chef Jeremiah Tower. "Without exception, the students were excited and inspired by the occasion. This was far more than just the chance to taste extraordinary food: above all, in recounting stories of his time at Chez Panisse with partner Alice Waters, and the creation of his iconic Stars Restaurant, Jeremiah gave the students a rare and inspirational insight into how, with passion, drive and self-belief, iconic hospitality venues can be created that are able to gain world attention and renown. It was a truly inspirational learning occasion; one that I am certain will live long in the memory of the students who attended."

About The Oxford School of Hospitality Management 

The Oxford School of Hospitality Management is a leading provider of higher education in the field of international hospitality and tourism management. The School has achieved an international reputation for teaching excellence and innovation, as well as strong links with business and industry. The School is ranked in the top three hospitality schools in the world (Worldwide Hospitality School Awards 2016) and top in the UK for student satisfaction (KIS data, 2016).

For more information visit http://hospitality.brookes.ac.uk/

Donald Sloan
Chair, The Oxford Cultural Collective
Oxford Brookes