SERC Tourism Preps for Anticipated Demand

0 min read

12 May 2021

Lecturer Catherine Anderson pictured outside SERC Downpatrick Campus

Student studying at home with laptop

With the weather warming up and the vaccination programme well under way many of us are daring to think about the possibility of getting away.   But whether you choose to go abroad when restrictions allow or plan to holiday closer to home, the tourism and hospitality sectors will need experienced, well trained and qualified employees to meet the anticipated demand.

Catherine Anderson, Deputy Head of School, Travel and Tourism said, “SERC offer travel and tourism programmes from entry Level 1/2 First Award in Travel in Tourism through to BTEC Level 3 in Travel and Tourism to BTEC Pearson Level 4 HNC and Level 5 HND in International Travel and Tourism Management.

She added, “By coming to SERC to study travel and tourism, students have access to a range of opportunities which they may not have through study elsewhere.  This includes networking opportunities with people who work and shape the industry and are regular guest speakers at SERC. Upon successful application, the chance to study abroad for two weeks as part of the Erasmus Plus programme or for up to 3 months as part of Erasmus Pro.  In addition, project-based learning (PBL) is embedded into every programme in SERC, so travel and tourism students are learning from real life scenarios and finding solutions – such as an enterprising staycation app - to meet customer needs as part of their everyday learning. This combination of course content gives them the edge whether they want to progress into employment or further studies.”

Even when travel was not possible, the College maximised its international links by taking part in a live student exchange involving students and teaching staff from SERC’s Level 3 Travel and Tourism and an International Studies class from Toyama Minami High School in Japan. Amy Glen (18) from Lisburn, a second-year student on the course at SERC said, “I really enjoyed taking part in the student exchange. This was a great opportunity which will benefit me in my course. It has made me aware of different cultural experiences and further developed my interest and understanding of students, just like myself, studying in different countries.”

Apply now for travel and tourism courses at SERC.