Grand day out for business students

Business students from East Sussex College Eastbourne went behind the scenes of local businesses in Brighton & Hove to support their learning

Last month, Business tutor Debra Ward, took her second year group to The Grand Brighton Hotel and the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink.

COVID-19 put a stop to many trips and opportunities for students, so it was a welcome return to some normality as lockdown restrictions were eased and students were able to extend their learning beyond the classroom. It was also a festive day out, as the beautifully decorated Grand Brighton made the perfect backdrop to the occasion.

“I wanted to do a nice day out for students and to incorporate the Business Management unit of their course,” says Debra. “I got in touch with Andi Hirons, People Director at The Grand Brighton, so the students had a show around.”

Students explored the four-star hotel’s past and future on their visit, taking in the site of the 1984 bombing, which is now used as a meeting room rather than a guest bedroom. They learned about the company’s new green initiatives, which include milk cartons made into blankets, eco-friendly balcony furniture, and coasters made out of recycled tyres.

The Brighton visit finished on the ice at the pop-up Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. “I went on the ice with them - I’m all game with them,” Debra continues. “They absolutely loved it; it was great!”

Further opportunities for the Business students include a webinar with the Houses of Parliament which includes a Q&A with local MP Caroline Ansell, and a visit to Brighton Pier next month focused around customer service. Year-one students go on work experience in March and year twos in May. Debra, whose background includes recruitment, Travel & Tourism and Business Travel is keen to support her students in enrichment activities and placements.

“I use my contacts to help students,” she says. “For me, it’s about getting them on LinkedIn, getting their CVs up to scratch and getting them out on placements and giving them experience. Visits like the one to The Grand Brighton gives students a feel of the industries out there and where they could end up working.”