Earlier this month, Weston College’s Year 2 Travel and Tourism students visited Mendip Activity Centre to gain valuable insight into the local tourism industry and the operations behind a successful business.  

Mendip Activity Centre is a tourist destination near Weston-super-Mare, known for its wide range of outdoor activities and for being a popular school residential location.   

The trip linked directly to multiple course units for the students, including Managing Accommodation, as well as topics in Business, Marketing, and Operations.

Students began the day with an informative session on the centre’s business model, marketing strategies, and operational processes which provided invaluable insight into how independent businesses manage resources, adapt to market trends, and deliver high-quality customer experiences. Students can then apply these skills directly to their future careers in the travel and tourism industry. This was followed by a guided tour of the site, including its campsite facilities, offering a real-world example of accommodation management in action.  

To round off the visit, learners enjoyed a game of frisbee golf which perfectly timed to coincide with Wellbeing Week at the college, combining practical learning with outdoor wellbeing activities. 

Experiences like this play a crucial role in both the personal and professional development of our learners. By engaging directly with industry professionals and observing real-world operations, students build confidence, strengthen their communication skills, and gain practical knowledge that goes beyond the classroom. These opportunities not only enhance their understanding of the tourism sector but also prepare them for future employment by demonstrating the standards and expectations of the industry.  

Hannah Forrest, Travel and Tourism lecturer at Weston College, said, “Curriculum trips like these are great for students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world operations, teaching them the importance of the tourism industry on local businesses. Being exposed to the workings of a popular tourist destination like this gives them the confidence and insight required to succeed within their future careers.”  

A big thank you to George Coombe and the team at Mendip Activity Centre for taking the time to engage with our students and share their valuable insight into the industry.  

This curriculum trip forms part of the Travel & Tourism and Business Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.  

Progress to the next level in Business! At University Centre Weston (UCW) our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. Click here! 

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