Business award-winner takes charge at food and tourism studio school

Jean Watt’s has taken on the role at the International Food and Travel Studio School in Bradford which opened last year, backed by the city’s college and a string of hotels and restaurants.

She has previously worked as an achievement officer with Bradford Council and an associate head teacher and deputy head teacher at schools across the country.

Mrs Watt has also won the Best Business Start-up Award in West Yorkshire for establishing her own catering business.

She started at the International Food and Travel Studio School in Bradford in time to host their official opening alongside Ilkley’s Box Tree restaurant.

She said: “I am delighted to finally be in post as the new director of the International Food and Travel Food Studio and I look forward to working with the staff and getting to know the students and parents.

“The International Food and Travel Studio offers a unique learning experience, combining academic learning and vocational skills with real-life work experience. I certainly would have loved such an opportunity. My immediate challenge is to ensure that all students at the studio achieve all that they are capable of and have a really successful future.”

Kath Oldale, the chairwoman of governors at the International Food and Travel Studio School said: “Jean comes to the studio with a wealth of experience across education and industry. We would like to wish Jean the very best of luck with her new role and we are sure the studio will continue to prosper under her leadership.”

The International Food and Travel Studio School in Bradford opened in September.

Studio schools are small schools for 14- to 19-year-olds which focus on particular career or subject areas. The studio offers B-Tech diplomas in hospitality and catering, tourism and business and gives students the chance to go on weekly work experience.

It has the backing of restaurants including Mumtaz, Prashad and the Aagrah.