About the course
The Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism is a prestigious academic qualification, the equivalent to studying 3 A-Levels, which provides learners with the opportunity to develop knowledge, understanding and skills surrounding this industry.
It is a two-year programme involving the study of 13 units, examples including The World of Travel and Tourism, Events, Conferences and Exhibitions, Working Overseas, Global Destinations, Managing the Customer Experience in Travel and Tourism, Travel and Tourism Enterprises, UK as a Destination, Sustainable Tourism and many more.
In addition you can study an NCFE Cabin Crew Qualification. Learners will be assessed through a variety of methods; these involve both internal and external assessments which will allow learners to develop their vocational and study skills. Learners will be supported with their progression towards higher education and future employment based within the Tourism sector. They will be given the opportunity to gain valuable work-related experience to give them the insight and connections with working within the Tourism and professional industries.
Our level 3 Travel and Tourism courses are proud to be sponsored by Fred Olsen and Premier Travel.
FAQ
1. How many days will I be in college?
You will be timetabled over three days, with two days for you to complete course related work from home.
2. Where are we likely to go on trips?
In Year 1 of your course you are likely to visit three UK attractions and have the opportunity to attend a 4 day/ 3 night overseas trip (covid-permitting)
3. How much do trips cost?
We try to ensure trips are as affordable as possible and spread payment deadlines out to ensure it is manageable. UK trips are likely to cost no more than a total of £100 and the overseas trip is likely to be approximately £430.
4. Is there exams on my course?
Yes - There are two exams in Year 1 of your course and the rest is made up of coursework based assignments. In Year 2 there are no exams.
5. Are there still likely to be Tourism related jobs post covid?
YES - The Industry has been affected by Covid quite clearly. However, there has been a huge rise in UK based Staycations leading to a rise in UK based job opportunities. Equally the industry is set to bounce back as soon as Travel is permitted. The future is looking very positive and we could see 2022 and beyond as record years for overseas Travel.
Entry requirements
Entry is by interview. Applicants will need either a minimum of four GCSEs Grade C (4) or above, including maths or English at Grade C (4) or a relevant Level 2 qualification at Merit level. Applicants will need to be able to be motivated and manage their own time. Learners will need to have a mature and responsible outlook, as they will be required to work with a high degree of independence for much of the course.
Qualifications
The College offers a wide menu of Level 3 Diplomas. We will work with all learners in their first six weeks at College to place them on the appropriate Diploma programme that best meets their individual needs and best ensures their success. Within this course, learners will have the opportunity to study the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Year 1 and to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism in Year 2. Additional qualifications in airline cabin crew and other related areas may also be studied during your time at West Suffolk College.
What you'll learn (core modules)
The travel industry is really broad and diverse so our modules and qualifications reflect this. Assessment mainly takes the form of a variety of course work and 'live projects' run throughout the year, although in Year 1 you will take two exams. Presentation skills will also be developed and some of the units and qualifications will require practical assessment to be carried out. This is especially so when studying our additional airline cabin crew qualification. Learners will be timetabled for three days per week with two independent study days which will support research and investigation. A number of trips and visits will be arranged during the year to support curriculum delivery and there will be an opportunity for a European residential visit.
Benefits, skills and character strengths
Working in the travel industry will require individuals who have the skills and ability to provide high standards and excellent customer service. It is a fun and dynamic industry to work in where teamwork is key and every day is a new and exciting challenge. It really can take you across the world and provide you with unique experiences and opportunities. Our qualifications will give you the chance to develop industry standard skills and character strengths. All courses will require resilience, determination to succeed and professional conduct. Full attendance and meeting assignment deadlines will be critical to your success. We are preparing individuals for university education and employment. Building character strengths and ambition underpins everything we do.
How will I be assessed?
There are two exams in Year 1 and the rest of the assessment is made up of assignments that are set by the different unit lecturers and graded pass, merit or distinction. 1-1 recorded feedback and individual targets are given at key milestones during the year. All work is assessed and verified internally with a sample sent for external moderation. Final qualifications are awarded at either a pass, merit or distinction level. At Level 3 all qualifications provide relevant UCAS points for university entry. Any student aged 16 to 19 who does not hold a GCSE A* to C (9 to 4 on the new grading structure) or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)
The course is delivered on the main West Suffolk College campus. Practical assessments are mainly carried out in our travel and tourism base rooms however, we are fortunate to have access to a number of key local and national organisations where further additional training is facilitated.
Where will the course take me?
Many learners progress onto Higher Education courses such as International Tourism/Events Management and Airport and Airline Services. Alternatively learners can progress directly into employment and develop careers in the travel industry in areas such as overseas holiday representatives, travel agents, tour operators, hotel/events management and marketing plus a number of aviation and airline cabin crew careers.
Will I need any materials or equipment?
You will need to spend approximately £100 per year to cover the cost of course-related trips and visits. A laptop is also advised as all coursework will need to be word processed and our base rooms are not computer rooms. You will also need standard learner stationery. The European residential trip would be priced when booked but could be in the region of £350-£450. Trips can cost £100 for UK based trips and Overseas Trip can be in the region of £350-£450
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Apply online and complete the application form. You will then be invited to the college for an interview with a member of the team who will give you more details about the programme and help you enrol onto the course.
Check out our YouTube video which allows you to see a bit more about the course and to hear from some students https://youtu.be/OuIUwIqHGjs
Days & times
Starting September 2023