Year 9 Hospitality Day at voco Oxford Thames

Students took part in four engaging hospitality workshops during the Voco Oxford Takeover Day on Monday, 19th January 2026, hosted at Voco Oxford Thames, an IHG Hotel in Sandford-on-Thames, OX4 4GX.

In Towel Artistry (Iffley Meeting Room), they learned a classic housekeeping skill: turning towels into animal shapes. This activity developed fine motor skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of how small touches can impress guests.

The Pancake Decorating session (Cowley Meeting Room) let students design their own pancakes. Guided by the Executive Chef and team, they practised plate presentation, creativity, precision, and basic food-cost awareness.

In Mocktail Making & Tray Skills (Eights Bar Meeting Room), students experimented with flavours, colours, and garnishes to create visually appealing drinks, while also learning how to balance trays and navigate an obstacle course—mirroring real restaurant service.

Finally, the Sales & Marketing:Social Media Videos workshop (Little Barn Meeting Room) introduced students to promotional skills. Working in small groups, they planned and filmed short videos advertising aspects of the hotel, coached on effective advertising and social media techniques.  

Mr Olubodun, Year 9 Head of Student Progress