Geoff Booth to leave Westminster Kingsway College
Booth, who joined the college in 2004, is credited with bringing a more commercial focus to the hospitality school, creating realistic work environments for students through the Atrium Cafe and the Vincent Rooms Restaurant. He has also broadened the spread of apprenticeship training offered to the sector.
During his tenure heading up the School of Hospitality the number of full-time students taking chef and restaurant service diplomas has doubled and part-time students tripled.
Westminster Kingsway College principal Andy Wilson said: “Geoff Booth has led the School of Hospitality at Westminster Kingsway College for almost 12 years. During that time the College has reinforced its position at the forefront of training for the hospitality sector in London, the UK and internationally. Geoff has worked tirelessly on behalf of the College and, more widely, across hospitality training, to ensure we continue to provide what generations of recruits need to succeed in the industry and employers with the skilled workforce required to sustain their business”.
Over the last 12 years Booth has also developed closer links with a number of hospitality organisations, including the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, the Academy of Food and Wine service, the Institute of Hospitality and the British Institute of Innkeepers, as well as creating bespoke partnerrship projects with the Savoy Hotel, Hilton, Accor, Hyatt, Compass, Baxter Storey, Harbour & Jones, D&D restaurants, the IOD, Sloane Club and RAC to establish customised Apprenticeship training schemes.
He said: "As I look back on what has been an incredible journey here at Westminster Kingsway, I am proud to have played a part in growing this great institution. The School of Hospitality & Business Enterprise in Vincent Square is now poised to benefit from the stunning refurbishment of the Centre, and the experience and dedication of the people striving within it.”
Following Booth's departure The School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts will continue to be managed by Gary Hunter, head of faculty for Hospitality and Culinary Arts.
