The UK's largest independent hotel management company has signed a deal to support the launch of the country's first national hotel school.

RBH, which manages a portfolio of 50+ hotels throughout the UK and Africa, has agreed a partnership with New College Telford in Shropshire to create a hospitality centre for excellence.

Based at The Whitehouse Hotel in Telford, the new hotel school will be operated and managed by New College Telford, while the hotel remains operating as normal under the management of RBH.

The training hub, which will welcome its first intake of 20 students in September 2014, will focus on preparing students for a variety of roles within the hospitality industry. Working alongside the hotel's experienced staff and management team, students will study on courses such as culinary skills, apprenticeships, and a Foundation degree in Events Management, which is offered in partnership with the University of Derby.

Stephen Bench, divisional director at RBH, said: "We're incredibly passionate about attracting new talent into the hospitality industry. The National Hotel School will offer a fantastic opportunity for young people to get their foot in the door and gain some of the best training available."

As part of the training initiative, students will gain first-hand experience through work placements and internships at a selection of RBH' national network of hotels - which includes private label, Hilton Worldwide, Best Western and IHG brands among others.

The group will also fund 10 apprenticeship places as part of the agreement, as well as hosting guest master-classes at the National Hotel School, giving the students expert insight and advice on running a successful hospitality business.

Stephen added: "There is already a vast talent pool within the UK and the new National Hotel School will provide the perfect outlet to nurture it. We're working closely with New College Telford to ensure the students are given extensive hands-on training as well as the relevant academic support.

"In addition to theory and understanding of key business areas, the training will equip the candidates with real world skills and prepare them for an active work environment. On top of all this we'll also guarantee each candidate an interview place for a relevant role within RBH following successfully achieving their accredited qualification."

Young people interested in finding out more about National Hotel School can contact 01952 641892 for full details.