Travel and Tourism students see how transportation supports business growth in the region
Lyndon School learners studying for a BTEC in Travel and Tourism have enjoyed a research visit to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
After learning about public transportation systems, the visit to the WMCA’s headquarters in central Birmingham was an excellent opportunity for the 22 year 11 learners to see some of the theory from their course in practice.
During the trip they learnt about both the strategic aims and daily operations of the WMCA, which covers 18 local authorities across the region. They found out what the authority is doing to expand the local economy and generate business in the West Midlands, and the role transportation and tourism play in this.
They also visited the Regional Transport Coordination Centre and saw how the hub’s round the clock live data is used by law enforcement agencies to manage disruption on the network, and keep it secure.
The trip was also an excellent opportunity to explore future career pathways and the many dynamic job opportunities available within the public transport sector.
Thanh Nguyen, Associate Assistant Principal, Lyndon School, part of Summit Learning Trust, said: “The BTEC Travel and Tourism qualification is really popular amongst learners, who enjoy learning about an industry that effects everyone’s life. So seeing that work in operation at the West Midlands Combined Authority was a great way to bring the subject to life – while also opening their eyes to the many employment opportunities right here on their doorstep.”
Abid Butt, Executive Principal, Lyndon School, part of Summit Learning Trust, said: “We are proud of the many careers opportunities we make available to our learners and, as travel and tourism is a fast growing sector in the UK, this was a really relevant and rewarding trip. Thank you to everyone at the West Midlands Combined Authority for the experience.”