When Katherine Wilkinson applied to North West Regional College to study for the Foundation Degree in International Travel and Tourism, one course wasn’t enough.
Determined to arm herself with the qualifications she needs to obtain her dream job, Katherine also undertook a number of short courses including recreational photography, Smart Serve Certification (In Canada), and most recently an OCN Level 2 in Tour Guiding.
With the Foundation Degree now completed, Katherine is now working with local business Primrose and says the structured learning she received at NWRC has set her on the path of achieving the career she wants.
She said: “This course was the perfect for me as I’m passionate about Travel and Tourism. I love learning about the world around me and I felt that if I’m going to be spending so much time travelling that it would be in my best interest to gain a recognised, accredited qualification.”
The six month industry specific placement was one of the most attractive elements of the Foundation Degree course for Katherine.
She explained: “I was able to network with past contacts and secure a three month work placement in the United States. I spent the other three months in the college restaurant. From these work placements I was able to develop skills I already possessed such as working in a team, time and people management etc.
“The course has lead me into completing a night class in tour guiding and gaining an OCN Level 2. “
Katherine revealed that North West Regional College offers a number of support mechanisms to students.
She said: “My course co-ordinator in particular has been incredibly supportive and the tutors were really supportive and helpful. The college has a top class Library and I.T facilities. I learned a lot in the classroom and in particular I was able to apply what I’d learned from the events module and apply it to a real-life situation as I organised a charity fundraiser which raised over £5000 for a very worthy cause.
“The college also arranged a number of site visits and guest speakers to talk to us, which gave me a valuable insight into industry.
“The course was hard work, but definitely worth it. That being said, it was very enjoyable and taught me so much. Being on this course has boosted my confidence and I now know what I am capable of. With an expanded skill set I have gained confidence to go out into the industry. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone with an interest in Travel and Tourism. “
For more information on the Foundation Degree in Travel and Tourism go to www.nwrc.ac.uk/apply
