The nine students from the Level 3 Diploma in Travel & Tourism course were accompanied by SERC Lecturers in Travel and Tourism Jenny Lowry and Colum Toner, alongside tutors and students from several other courses.
While in Bali, students had several enriching experiences. Students took part in a team building session at Bali Kuno jungle camp. “This was an immersive cultural experience that provided us with the opportunity to not only learn about Balinese traditions but partake in them ourselves”, said travel and tourism student Rachel Wright, “The experience provided me with better cultural involvement and understanding than any other activity on the trip. Locals were so eager and excited to share their traditions – it's definitely at the top of my list for one of the best experiences I’ve ever got to participate in.”
Rachel continued, “Throughout our two weeks' worth of packed activities, we were provided with the opportunity to meet with placement project partners. Our specific experience was with a company called Made Tea that is based within Bali. They demonstrated to us the importance of empowering our local communities and providing fair access to careers for all individuals. Through the empowerment of employing homemakers from the local community, Made Tea is able to provide flexible hours to it’s workers which is valuable to them as they are still able to play a role within their larger community while maintaining their roles within their families.”
The travel and tourism students also visited Tenganan Village, the oldest village in Bali, to learn about travel and tourism, as well as Plataran Hotel for a site tour and learning about the catering and hospitality management of a hotel in Bali. As well as this, students were able to immerse themselves in the local culture though traditional Balinese Ogoh-Ogoh and Batik painting workshops and attending the Pengerupukan Celebration Day parade.
Rachel concludes, “Bali has given me experiences that many people will never have and has allowed me to develop myself and grow as an individual. Before leaving I arrived at the airport knowing a total of four students only to come home knowing over 30. I was able to grow my confidence and enhance my knowledge of travel and tourism which is something I’m very grateful for."
The Turing Scheme provides funding for students to undertake a study or work placement across the world, contributing to the UK Government’s commitment to a Global Britain, by helping organisations such as SERC to enhance existing international links and forge new relationships. The delivery partner for the Turing Scheme is the Department for Education (UK).
