Travel and Tourism Students Find Inspiration with Real-World Experiences

Students from across the Travel and Aviation department have recently enjoyed a series of enriching industry-focused experiences, connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities in the sector.

Students aspiring to join the airline industry were treated to an inspiring session with Emily Napier, a current Cabin Crew member and Recruitment Officer for global travel company TUI. Emily offered a behind the scenes look into the recruitment process, shared insights into the diverse arms of the TUI brand including hotels, aircraft, cruise liners, and travel agencies, and highlighted the company’s customer promise and core values. The visit included a hands-on role-play activity in the College’s dedicated aircraft simulator, designed to mimic real recruitment tasks, allowing students to test their teamwork and customer service skills in a professional setting.

College alumna Chloe Limage, who now also works in a TUI retail role, returned to campus to speak with students, offering practical tips and advice on applying for roles within the company. 

The department also opened its doors to the wider community with a visit from a local Brownie group, who explored the college’s aircraft simulator for an interactive cabin crew experience. The event offered a fun and educational opportunity for the children, alongside a chance for students to develop their skills in customer engagement and event coordination.

Extending their learning beyond the classroom, Travel and Tourism students took to the streets of London, as they planned and delivered guided tours of key city attractions, including the London Eye and Madame Tussauds. The trip gave students a chance to build confidence in public speaking and tour management while exploring some of the capital’s top tourist destinations.

Lecturer Elizabeth Gensler praised the students’ involvement in the recent activities, stating, “These experiences are invaluable in preparing our students for successful careers in travel and tourism. They provide a unique opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals and apply their skills in real-world settings.”