Our purpose-built Premier Inn Training Facility at Conway Park is transforming opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Developed in partnership with Whitbread as part of the national Thrive programme, the facility replicates a real Premier Inn hotel. It includes:
Three en-suite bedrooms (one fully accessible)
Reception area
Linen room
Complete with features like ‘do not disturb’ signs and tea and coffee-making stations.
This realistic environment provides a safe, supportive space for students to develop hands-on hospitality and customer service skills. As part of our Supported Internships and Prep For Life courses, students gain valuable experience in areas such as guest relations and housekeeping.
For some, this leads to employment or a supported internship within Premier Inn. For others, it builds confidence and life skills that support a wide range of future pathways.
Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.
I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.
Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.
I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.
