The Classroom, Cardiff and Vale College’s City Centre Campus restaurant, has been named UK College Restaurant of the Year at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2026.
This is the fifth consecutive year that The Classroom has been shortlisted for the award which showcases outstanding commitment to the training of the next generation of hospitality professionals. But this year it took home the prize.
A classic modern European restaurant in the heart of Cardiff, The Classroom offers high quality, seasonal food with local ingredients where possible. A team of industry professionals lead the restaurant, which is staffed by the College’s Hospitality and Catering learners.
As part of the competition, the students were required to plan, market and deliver a live charity event. Held in The Classroom with the support of celebrity chef Stephen Terry, the event raised nearly £1,700 for Hospitality Action, a charity that supports those working in the sector who may need support in their career for anything from mental health to financial concerns. It covers the entire Hospitality industry, from hotels restaurants, pubs, bars or cafes to schools, hospitals and event venues.
The team, with CAVC Hospitality learners Solomon Bennett, Charlie Burton and Polly Rees, then travelled to The Belfry Hotel and Resort to present their charity project to a panel of top industry judges. They were graded on commercial awareness, creativity, presentation skill, and how effectively they raised funds and awareness for the charity.
They then had to respond to a rigorous questioning session focused on their decisions, outcomes and commercial approach. The judges described their knowledge, confidence, professionalism and commercial acumen as outstanding and unlike anything the panel had seen before.
Managing Director of AA Media Simon Numphud said: “Cardiff and Vale College are thoroughly deserving winners. The Classroom is a fantastic example of what hospitality education can achieve when talented students, passionate lecturers and strong industry partnerships come together. What particularly impressed us was the real-world experience students receive and the opportunities created for young people from a wide range of backgrounds to build their confidence, develop outstanding skills and see hospitality as an exciting and rewarding career.
"Their commitment extends well beyond the restaurant, with students working alongside leading chefs, competing on national and international stages and building valuable connections with employers. Cardiff and Vale are not only developing the next generation of hospitality professionals, they are helping to strengthen the future of the industry in Wales. It is a tremendous achievement and one they should be incredibly proud of.”
Cardiff and Vale College Principal Sharon James-Evans said: “Congratulations to The Classroom team and learners – winning AA College Restaurant of the year is a real accolade. This prestigious award is a testament to your hard work, dedication and outstanding professionalism.”