The Roffey Park Experience First-Hand

Why Roffey Park Is More Than Just a Venue – My Experience from Both Sides

Author: Jose Sanchez – Head of Hospitality

Not many people know this, but I’ve actually taken part in two of the leadership programmes delivered by Roffey Park Institute — Strategic Middle Management and Clear Leadership. And yes, I also work here at Roffey Park, but going through those programmes as a participant gave me a completely new perspective. 

It made me realise something quite clearly: Roffey Park is more than just a venue — it’s a whole experience. 

Learning as a Guest (Sort of) 

When I joined the first programme, I made a small decision that changed the whole experience — I didn’t tell anyone straight away that I worked here. I wanted to blend in, take everything in properly, and hear people’s honest thoughts without them knowing who I was. 

I stayed onsite for the full two nights, just like everyone else. And from the moment I arrived, I could feel what our guests must feel — the peaceful countryside surroundings, the friendly welcome, and the chance to properly switch off from the day-to-day. My room was very comfortable, I slept like a log, and honestly, everything felt exactly as it should — like I was a guest, not staff. 

That first evening at dinner, I sat with a few other participants and listened in as they chatted about the food, the sessions, the overall vibe. It was actually quite funny hearing people talk about “the team” when I was part of the team — but they didn’t know yet. I just smiled, listened, and took mental notes. A couple of days later someone said, “You seem to know this place really well,” and I finally admitted, “Actually, I work here!” 

We all had a laugh about it, but it gave me such a valuable view — to see and hear things from the guest’s side without any filters. 

A Residential Experience That Makes a Difference 

Both programmes — delivered by Roffey Park Institute — were genuinely brilliant. The Strategic Middle Management programme helped me take a step back and think more strategically about how I lead and work across the organisation. Clear Leadership, on the other hand, gave me tools to communicate more openly and handle difficult situations more clearly and confidently. I still use those tools today. 

But what really made a difference was the residential aspect. 

Staying onsite for two nights helped me fully focus. I didn’t have to think about getting home, sorting dinner, or checking emails — I was just there, fully present. I had space to think, reflect, and process what I was learning. In the evenings, I’d go for a walk around the grounds or take a dip in the pool — it helped me properly unwind and clear my head. 

Those moments of quiet in between the sessions were just as valuable as the learning itself. And the connections I made with the other participants were real. We talked about challenges at work, shared our experiences, and supported each other. You start to realise that a lot of people are going through the same things — and that connection stays with you. 

The Full Roffey Park Experience 

When people talk about “The Roffey Park Experience,” it’s hard to explain until you’ve felt it yourself. 

It’s not just about the content of the programme — it’s the whole environment. The countryside setting helps you switch off. The service is warm but professional. You’re not just in and out — you’re part of something, even if just for a few days. 

As Head of Hospitality, I already knew how much our team care about getting it right — but going through the experience myself reminded me just how much it matters. From the way we welcome guests to how we set up the room, from dietary requests to little things like remembering how someone takes their coffee — those touches make a big difference. 

After completing the programmes, I was also able to give helpful feedback to both the hospitality team and the wider organisation. And that’s the beauty of working here — we never stop learning, and we’re always trying to improve. 

For Training Organisations, It Just Works 

If you’re a trainer, facilitator or learning and development organisation looking for a venue to run a residential programme — Roffey Park really is set up for it. 

We understand the flow of multi-day learning, the importance of space and downtime, and how to create an environment where people feel safe to open up and grow. And we work here onsite, we see the impact Roffey Park Institute programmes have on individuals and teams all the time. 

Don’t Just Take My Word For It 

I know I work here, so you might expect me to say nice things — but I’ve sat in the chairs, eaten the meals, stayed the nights, and done the learning. I’ve felt the Roffey Park experience from both sides. 

So if you’re thinking about running a residential programme, or joining one of Roffey Park Institute’s courses — don’t just take my word for it. 

Chat to our team today and come and experience it for yourself. 

Categorised in: Uncategorised