The 50-seat restaurant boasts three kitchens including an industry standard facility, while another features a window so diners can see the chefs in action. Offering three-course lunches and a fine dining dinner experience, students will use fresh and locally sourced produce wherever possible.
The modern, cutting-edge facilities at Grayson’s, which replaces NWSLC’s award-winning restaurant, Glebegate, have been designed to reflect the aspirations the college has for its catering and hospitality students. Along with providing students with industry standard facilities in which to develop mouth-watering menus to a professional standard, the restaurant will also play a huge part in meeting future skills needs in the region.
Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive at NWSLC, said: “Our restaurant’s new home reflects the level of ambition we have for our students. We are determined to raise the bar and provide our learners with experiences that not only mirror the world of work, but within a setting that represents the very best workplaces.
“Learning and working in a cutting-edge facility like Grayson’s restaurant raises students’ aspirations and is the clearest demonstration of what their future career could look like and the standard to aspire to. It provides a realistic working environment, where students can achieve a nationally recognised qualification and gain essential work experience.
“I encourage anyone living in the area to pay a visit to the restaurant and sample the menu that our students have worked so hard to create – the proof really is in the pudding. I can personally vouch for how mouth-watering their dishes are.”
The College’s catering and hospitality continues to go from strength to strength – in July, culinary students and staff scooped three prestigious accolades at the UK Young Restaurant Team of the Year competition, including the contest’s top award.
Grayson’s restaurant can be found on Abbey Street, with plenty of parking available nearby in the public car parks. Its opening times are:
• Tuesday to Friday: Lunch – 12pm–2pm, with last orders at 12:30pm
• Thursday evenings: 6:45pm–9:30pm, with last orders at 7:15pm
• Tuesday evenings: From November to March – 6:45pm–9:30pm, with last orders at 7:15pm.
Advance booking is strongly advised due to the popularity of the restaurant. To make a reservation call 02476 243184 – a message can be left outside of restaurant opening hours. Christmas bookings are now being taken so book early to avoid disappointment.
NWSLC Grayson Place is open to full-time students, apprentices, adult and higher education learners returning to education, and those wishing to re-engage in education and explore careers. More than 20 programmes will be delivered at the campus, including digital courses, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), workshop and hobby courses for adults, and professional qualifications.
To find out more about the courses on offer at NWSLC Grayson Place visit www.nwslc.co.uk.
