Course overview

This course will allow you to develop the skills required in the travel and tourism industry; from organising events and planning itineraries, to presenting welcome meetings, finding out about the cruise industry and much more.

From organising conferences and events to learning how to resolve problems in an emergency situation, this course will help you to develop skills needed to succeed in this fast paced industry. Our first class facilities include a dedicated Travel and Tourism teaching area which include a mock airline cabin and check in desk. Our supportive, knowledgeable team have extensive industry experience extending over Travel Retail, Overseas Resort Operation, Cabin Crew, Cruising, Conference and Event Organisation, Tourist Information Centre, Adventure Tourism and Hospitality roles.

You will learn about the key areas of the travel and tourism industry. You will find out about different types of tour operators such as Thomas Cook and Thomson Holidays and learn how they put together package holidays, create brochures and promote their products.

Within Spires Travel, our partnering independent travel agent, you may have the opportunity to sample life as a Travel Agent. From package holidays and family resorts to eco-tourism and solo travel, you will help customers access a variety of different trips.

The wide choice of careers in travel and tourism can be daunting. Luckily, we will introduce you to working in Human Resources, Ancillary Sales and Services or as a Tour Guide or Holiday Park Host. You will also learn how to run events, deal with emergencies and understand your employee rights.

During the course, you will have the opportunity to visit a UK or European based holiday resort where you will gain first-hand experience of the running of the business and the products and services on offer. This will give you a good idea of the roles and responsibilities involved in different types of job.

Please note that for all travel and tourism courses it is a mandatory requirement to wear uniform.

Please note that this course is predominantly aimed at 16 to 19 year olds.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs grade 9-4 (A*-C) including English and maths. Entry will be subject to a satisfactory reference and interview.

Entry decisions will be discretionary at interview. Students will continually be assessed through probation period to ensure they are on the correct level and course.

Course Modules

- The UK Travel and Tourism Industry
- Customer Service in Travel and Tourism
- Preparing for a Career in Travel and Tourism
- Travel and Tourism Destinations
- Hospitality in Travel and Tourism
- The UK Conference and Event Industry
- UK Airports and Worldwide Passenger Airlines
- The Cruise Industry

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed through a combination of assignments, practical activities, presentations and on-line multiple-choice tests.

What can I do next

After successfully completing your first year with a merit grade or higher, as well as achieving Level 2 Functional Skills in English and maths, you will be able to progress on to an Extended Diploma for your second year. You may then like to consider a degree in Travel and Tourism Management.

You will also be open to a range of careers including (but not limited to):
- Travel and Tourism Manager
- Event Organiser
- Hotel Management
- Tourism Officer
- Cabin Crew
- Passenger
Service Agent