People 1st International and the AA have opened entries for the 2024 annual AA College Restaurant of the Year award, which recognises the hard work of chef lecturers and student brigades that run college restaurants.

The award builds on the AA College Rosette Scheme, which was developed by People 1st International and AA Hotel Services to recognise college restaurants for the quality of food they produce and the level of service they deliver.

The People 1st International-sponsored award is open to colleges that have received accreditation from People 1st International – a stamp of approval that recognises colleges that deliver excellent full-time hospitality qualifications – and that also hold an AA College Rosette for their restaurant.

Accredited colleges are invited submit an application to be considered for the 2024 AA College Restaurant of the Year award. Plus – there is still time for colleges to become accredited before the competition deadline.

At a time where businesses continue to face intense competition to attract and retain employees – as highlighted by our latest insights into the changing skills and labour market, State of the Workforce 2023 – the awards help shine a light on the colleges that are leading the way in training future talent.

Andy Doyle, Partnerships Manager at People 1st International, commented: “Our recent State of the Workforce 2023 insights into the changing skills and labour market demonstrate the persistent recruitment and retention challenges that businesses are facing. The role that college restaurants play in developing a strong pipeline of skilled talent is critical for the industry. Our accredited colleges are the best of the best, and the AA College Restaurant of the Year award is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work they do.”

Simon Numphud, Managing Director, AA Hotel Services, said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with People 1st International through the annual AA College Restaurant of the Year award. The award gives accredited colleges an unprecedented opportunity to be part of one of the industry’s most prestigious events and put their restaurants well and truly on the map! Best of luck to all involved!”

Winners of last year’s competition, Exeter College’s renowned @34 Restaurant said this about their award win:

“For our learners it shows them that we do things right here. We strive for perfection and that we back our students to deliver. We are all so proud of the @34Restaurant and our commercial spaces, and having this validated with both the highly commended Rosette and now the College Restaurant of the year has been amazing for everyone, students and staff alike.” – Matthew Pickett, Hospitality Curriculum Area Manager at Exeter College

Entries to the 2024 AA College Restaurant of the Year award close on 19 April 2024 and shortlisted finalists will be invited to attend a judging day in London. The winner of the AA College Restaurant of the Year 2024 award will be announced at The AA Hospitality Awards on 23 September at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, Park Lane.