Business

Two more leading employers pledge their support

London City Airport has pledged to support the delivery of Diploma in Travel and Tourism within the London boroughs in their area.

The airport plans to offer a half-day module or guided assignment for travel and tourism learners.  This will involve inviting them to the airport, offering a full tour of the facilities and services and then setting a Diploma-related task or project for learners to undertake under the expert guidance of airport staff members.

“Engaging with Travel and Tourism Diploma students allows London City Airport to give young people a realistic insight into working in the business tourism industry.  With the upcoming London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games being hosted in venues within three miles of our airport, we are excited about recruiting local students with an interest in and knowledge of our industry,” said Elizabeth Hegarty, community relations manager, London City Airport.

This link with the airport is an example of the way in which employers can help to make the Diploma come alive in an applied setting, whilst supporting achievement in local schools and colleges. 

Claire Steiner, the Diploma employer engagement manager is also working with Ripley’s Believe it or Not! at the Trocadero Centre in central London, to develop a series of applied learning modules that learners can undertake on educational visits.

“Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! London is very pleased to be an active partner in the Diploma in Travel and Tourism. We look forward to helping students and teachers alike with our knowledge of the industry to ensure the course is a success for all,” said Hannah Humphreys, education officer, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!   

Both employers provide opportunities for teachers and students to attend training sessions within the workplace to help develop skills such as customer service and marketing which are two key components of the Diploma.

The Association of Women Travel Executives backs Diploma

The association has pledged to encourage its members to get involved in the delivery of the Diploma either as individuals or through their companies. 

Tricia Handley, chairman of the Association of Women Travel Executives (AWTE) states that the association strongly supports the aims and objectives of the Diploma.   “We feel that we can play a part in ensuring that entrants into our industry are well-prepared and as knowledgeable as possible. One of our main aims is to help develop the future female managers of the industry and the Diploma will give new entrants a fantastic foundation and introduction to our sector by providing them with the skills and knowledge to succeed!”

Since its creation 50 years ago, AWTE has always supported educational initiatives within the travel sector and provide opportunities for senior professional women to meet and exchange views and ideas on current market trends.

Call to action

Are you already involved with your local schools or colleges?   Would you like to be involved?

The Diploma team is looking for industry professionals to join its regional network of Diploma representatives who are prepared to engage with their local schools and colleges to promote the Diploma and careers in travel and tourism.
 
Over the next few months, children will be deciding their academic path and will have the opportunity to be the first students to participate in the Diploma in Travel and Tourism from September 2010.
 
This offers an excellent developmental opportunity for your staff as well as being able to showcase your company to the local community.   
 
The Diploma Development Partnership team has agreed that any staff involved will be able to earn Accredited Travel Professional points as part of their ongoing continued professional development.
 
To get involved, you will need to get in touch with your local consortia.

For more information on employer engagement or general information please visit:www.tandtdiploma.co.uk  or email claire.steiner@tandtdiploma.co.uk.

14.10.09