ITC short course leads to work experience for students
Explore New Zealand recently offered a group of ITC short course students the opportunity to do some work experience
When secondary school students attend a short course at the International Travel College (ITC), they walk away with more than credits.
In many cases, students leave with a work experience opportunity, or even a job offer!
On a recent Tourism Short Course, ITC arranged for the students to participate on several industry visits, including sessions at the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, Auckland Adventure Jet and Explore New Zealand.
This approach connects students directly with the industry, allowing them to see for themselves what it is like to work in tourism.
It also provides students with the opportunity to make a good first impression with some of Auckland’s top tourism employers.
During this short course, both the General Manager of the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari and the Sales and Marketing Manager of Explore NZ offered the students the chance to do some work experience.
ITC Short Course Team Leader Mel Fey believes this practical approach is the best way to show students what types of careers are available to them.
“When students join us on day 1, they all say they want to be a flight attendant – this is the extent of their knowledge about the airline, travel and tourism industries,” says Mel.
“But after spending 2 days at ITC and visiting industry employers, they change their perception of what they want. They can make a more informed decision because they have learnt more about the tourism industry as a whole.”
ITC students experience some of Auckland’s top attractions during the Tourism Short Course, such as Adventure Jet Boating
The Tourism Short Course is 2 days and worth 3 credits at Level 3. All students who attend spend an action-packed two days visiting up to four industry employers.
The aim is to educate the students about the tourism industry, but also to arm them with the confidence necessary to follow their career goals.
“This course gives confidence to the students to go out there and introduce themselves, rather than waiting until it’s too late,” Mel says.
“There’s a lot to be said for putting yourself out there now and grabbing opportunities.”
ITC short courses are open to secondary schools around the country. For more information on the subjects available or to book a course, please email schools@itc.co.nz.
Posted in In Schools | Tagged Auckland, Tourism, Work Experience | Leave a reply