We offer the BTEC Tech Award in Travel and Tourism to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the travel and tourism industry, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for future careers in this dynamic sector. Our aims are to:

• Help students understand key concepts, terminology, and the impact of the travel and tourism industry on individuals, communities, and the global economy.
• Encourage students to think creatively and analytically, make informed decisions, and solve real-world problems related to travel, tourism, and customer service.
• Support students in becoming independent learners and critical thinkers who can develop thoughtful strategies and solutions for tourism-related challenges.
• Provide opportunities for students to explore real-life tourism scenarios and construct well-supported arguments based on their understanding of industry trends and practices.
• Develop students’ skills in interpreting data and information related to the travel and tourism industry, preparing them for further study or employment

In Key Stage 4, students receive five hours of lessons over a fortnight for the BTEC Tech Award in Travel and Tourism. The department utilises a range of digital resources to communicate ideas and information effectively, ensuring lessons are engaging, interactive, and meet high educational standards. Assessments are aligned with the school’s expectations, and students receive regular feedback with clear, aspirational targets. However, it is important to note that the Pearson (BTEC) guidelines for Non-Examination Assessments (NEAs) take priority over the school’s general feedback and assessment policies.

The curriculum is structured to cover multiple units over the two-year period, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the travel and tourism sector. Lessons are taught by experienced staff using a variety of resources to create a dynamic and enriching learning environment. Throughout the course, students will complete two NEAs and a final exam unit.

To support student progress, in-class assessments are regularly conducted to help reinforce and apply the knowledge taught. Techniques such as class questioning, retrieval practices, and assessment for learning are employed to encourage active participation. Data gathered from these assessments informs future lesson planning, ensuring that teaching is tailored to meet students’ needs and support their progress.

The department maintains high standards through the use of centralised resources, learning walks, lesson observations, and book scrutiny. These strategies ensure consistency across all classes and that key concepts are effectively taught.

Feedback is provided to students in various forms, including self-assessment, peer assessment, and verbal feedback during lessons. Formal feedback is given using the “What Went Well” (WWW) and “Even Better If” (EBI) model, along with both formative and summative assessments.

Students are assigned homework approximately every other week, typically using the SENECA platform. Homework supports learning retention, identifies gaps in knowledge, and helps to inform targeted interventions. It also plays a crucial role in preparing students for upcoming NEA assessments.

At HLC, we believe that studying the BTEC Tech Award in Travel and Tourism plays a vital role in shaping our students into confident, capable, and forward-thinking individuals. The course fosters the development of essential skills such as customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are crucial for success in the ever-evolving travel and tourism industry. We aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in this global sector, preparing them to make valuable contributions at local, national, and international levels.

Through practical experiences, case studies, and real-world applications, students learn how to address and solve challenges faced by businesses in the travel and tourism industry. This helps them gain the confidence and expertise needed to handle situations they may encounter in their future careers. Our goal is for students to become well-rounded, skilled learners who can apply their knowledge and understanding in a wide range of contexts, both inside and outside the classroom.

Students are assigned homework approximately every other week, typically using the SENECA platform. Homework supports learning retention, identifies gaps in knowledge, and helps to inform targeted interventions. It also plays a crucial role in preparing students for upcoming NEA assessments.

As the exam windows approach, the focus of homework will shift towards past papers to ensure students are familiar with the exam structure. This will provide students with sufficient opportunities to practice and refine their exam techniques, helping them feel confident and prepared for their assessments.

We are committed to providing a well-rounded educational experience and are always seeking opportunities to enhance our curriculum with enrichment activities. These include contributions from industry experts, school visits, and outreach programs from further education institutions.

We are committed to ensuring that our students achieve strong results in the BTEC Tech Award, providing a solid foundation for further study in travel, tourism, and related fields. The skills and knowledge developed through this qualification are transferable, opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities and empowering students to succeed in their professional and personal lives.