Travel and Tourism Visits

It was with much in trepidation that students from The Henley College headed to Oxford Castle, Oxford’s premiere visitor attraction.

The first year Extended Diploma Travel and Tourism students had been promised a day that included an introductory workshop to customer service and a chance to experience the traditional Christmas market whilst also touring the infamous Oxford prison within the grounds of the old Norman castle.

The twenty students were not prepared however for the dark stories of great escapes, executions, murder and ghostly images in the candle lit crypt.  The students still unanimously agreed though that learning outside the classroom is an invaluable and fun experience even when joined by mysterious and eerie sightings!

Georgina Smith, who joined the College in September from Gillotts School, said “Oxford Castle was a great opportunity for me to learn about all the historical facts, as well as being able to see the buildings and prison at the same time. It was completely relevant and helpful for the course I’m studying”.

After the success of the recent day trip to the impressive Virgin Atlantic cabin crew training centre near Gatwick, this provided a different perspective on customer service for the completion of this specific unit within their diploma. Ex-Langtree student, Shelby Peacock said “although I enjoyed the Virgin Atlantic training, I felt that Oxford Castle was a lot of fun and we could explore on our own. It was a really exciting educational experience and I would recommend others to go there”.

The Extended Diploma course is the equivalent to three A levels and has seen a 68% increase in student enrolments for 2011/12. It is reflecting the growing popularity of travel and tourism as a profession but also the need to have industry specific training within this difficult economic climate. According to a Deloitte study in 2010 'The Economic Contribution of the Visitor Economy – UK and the nations', tourism was worth £115.4bn to the UK economy in 2009 and it is hoped that these students will be a part of the future growth of the industry.

December 2011

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