At the end of February 2020, representatives from teams at Argent College, Ruskin Mill Land Trust and The Hive attended a black-tie awards ceremony in the beautiful ‘Great Hall’ at the University of Birmingham. We were delighted to be awarded a GOLD standard by Visit England and win a West Midlands Tourism Award in the category of ‘Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable’ tourism.
The Hive contributes to the region’s tourism economy with its organic café and bakery, gallery, craft workshops, and heritage and exhibitions programme. What makes it stand out from the crowd is what happens ‘behind the scenes’ and the hard work of students and staff at Argent College.
Students grow and harvest chemical-free organic fresh produce on the rooftop which is served to customers in the café; they bake and wait tables, and selectively compost all food waste within the building. The judge’s comments include, the “whole business model reflects great appreciation for sustainable and ethical practices” and its approach is “extremely unique,” with “fantastic engagement with the wider community on various levels.”
This award recognises the work of all staff and students who work in various teams across the whole building.
The Hive will now automatically be nominated for the Visit England National Awards for Excellence for another shot at glory!’’