Students undertaking Travel and Tourism First and National Diplomas have been experiencing tourism first hand. Their research has been greatly enhanced this term by a range of visits and preparation for Residentials. The BTEC First Travel and Tourism students got off to a flying start in the first week of term as they visited STA travel, the Visitro Information Centre and the IBIS Hotel.

The 2nd week of term saw the BTEC First and 1ST Year National students visiting the Science and Industry Museum to take part in the Experiment section of the museum and to administer questionnaires and conduct personal observations.

Earlier in the term all groups of students - the BTEC First and the 1st and 2nd year national students visited Alton Towers - this was a very enjoyable day which combined work with the pleasures of experiencing the rides.

Visits have continued throughout the term as the 2nd year National students visited Liverpool Airport to find out about how they deal with Air Passengers - a useful experience for travellers and for students who intend to work in the Airline Industry.

The 2nd year National students had an experience of fresh air in the countryside and a descent into the underground as they conducted research for Visitor Attractions at Speed well and Peak Caverns. An underground boat ride contributed to the atmosphere.

1st year National students visited Manchester City Centre to research travel agencies and to analyse display techniques, whilst the BTEC First students had a cultural experience when they visited Chester - a guided tour from an official tour guide contributed to the enjoyment and interest gained from walking around the ancient city walls and the traditional shops in the famous Chester Rows - whilst the Christmas markets provided a glimpse of Christmas festivities to come.

The final external activity of the term will rake place on Wednesday 16th Dec as the 2nd year national students will visit the Lake District where they will have a lecture at the Brookhole Visitor Centre and then test their strength and skill at the Kendal Climbing Centre.

The students gain valuable experience from these visits and gain a strong research base which will help them get the distinctions for which the department is renowned - The Travel and Tourism Department has been judged nationally as the highest achieving Travel and Tourism Department providing the BTEC National Courses.