St Colman's High & Sixth Form College

Travel and Tourism

Department Staff

Mrs L Anderson (Head of department)

Mrs N Emmaneul

 

Our department aim

The aim of the Travel and Tourism Department is to inspire students to develop a deep understanding of the global travel industry while equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours required for success in further education and employment. The department is committed to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant learning experiences that promote independence, critical thinking, and global awareness. Through practical application, real-world context, and a strong focus on sustainability and cultural understanding, students are encouraged to become confident, informed, and responsible contributors to the future of travel and tourism. 

European Parliament Ambassador School

The Travel and Tourism Department is a European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS), with Mrs. Anderson serving as the Lead Ambassador for the programme. This prestigious status provides students with unique opportunities to participate in European Union events and learning initiatives. Students can engage in programmes like Euroscola, gaining firsthand experience in international relations and the legislative side of global travel and tourism.  

Key stage 4 provision

Pearson BTEC Level 1 / Level 2 First Award in Travel and Tourism

 

This two-year BTEC course consists of four units and is equivalent to one GCSE. It provides an engaging introduction to one of the world’s most dynamic industries, allowing students to develop essential knowledge and technical skills within a practical, applied learning environment.

Throughout the programme, students explore key sectors such as accommodation, transport, visitor attractions, and tourism development. By examining the importance of travel and tourism to the UK economy alongside international destinations and diverse customer needs, students gain a strong global perspective and an understanding of how the industry operates in real-world contexts.

Mandatory units

Mandatory units

Assessment methods

Contribution to final grade

The UK Travel and Tourism Sector

External exam

25%

UK Travel and Tourism Destinations

Internal coursework

25%

The Travel and Tourism Customer Experience

Internal Synoptic coursework

25%

Optional specialist unit 

Factors Affecting Worldwide Travel and Tourism

Internal coursework

25%

Internal assessment is completed through coursework which will be submitted through Google classroom.

Post 16

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism (RQF)

The Pearson BTEC National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism is a two-year, four-unit course equivalent to one A Level, offering a career-focused introduction to one of the world’s most resilient and diverse industries. Designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the professional world, the programme extends beyond textbooks through industry visits, direct observation, and guest speakers from across the sector, including airline professionals and destination marketing specialists.

Students develop a strong understanding of the global travel and tourism industry by analysing the economic impact of UK tourism, exploring the appeal of international destinations, and applying marketing principles. This balanced curriculum combines externally assessed examinations with internally assessed coursework, enabling students to plan effectively, track progress, and work towards their target grades.

The programme utilises Google Classroom for all submissions and resource sharing, supporting the development of strong digital organisation and independent study skills. Throughout the course, students build professional-standard research, analytical, and communication skills while investigating emerging global trends and sustainable tourism, providing a solid foundation for both higher education and a wide range of career pathways. 

Mandatory units

Unit

Assessment Method

Contribution to Final Grade

The World of Travel and Tourism

External exam

25%

Global Destinations

External exam

25%

Principles of Marketing in Travel and Tourism

Internal synoptic coursework

25%

Visitor Attractions (Optional Specialist Unit)

Internal coursework

25%

Entry requirements.

  • GCSE English and/or Maths at Grade C or above

  • A genuine interest in Travel and Tourism, Business Studies, research, and understanding the world around you

Assessment

Year 13

  • The World of Travel and Tourism – Exam (January 2025)

  • Visitor Attractions – Coursework (May 2025)

Year 14

  • Global Destinations – Exam (January 2026)

  • Principles of Marketing in Travel and Tourism – Coursework (May 2026)

How you will be assessed:

 A learner’s final BTEC National grade is determined by the total number of points accumulated across all units. Internally assessed units are graded by teachers and verified by Pearson, while externally assessed units are marked directly by Pearson. Each unit is awarded points based on the grade achieved (Pass, Merit, or Distinction). These points are combined to produce an overall qualification grade ranging from Pass to Distinction*.

BTEC Grade A-Level equivalent UCAS points
Distinction* A* 56
Distinction A 48
Merit C 32
Pass E 16

 

Documents

Pearson BTEC Level 2 First Award in Travel and Tourism

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism - Specification