When, a few years ago, it was learnt there would be no T-level in travel and tourism, we expected a new A-level type of qualification similar to the old Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE) would replace BTEC Nationals, which have been offered since I joined New College Durham back in 1973.
Unfortunately, it seems the industry have not put enough pressure on the government to make it change its minds. However, you will have seen from reports that have appeared recently in the trade press, there is now a concerted effort to reverse this decision.
If this decision is implemented, the industry will be left with either a Business T-level or in-company apprenticeships, similar to the highly successful scheme offered by Hays Travel for post-16 education.
I expect degrees in travel and tourism will probably remain at our universities but Higher National Diploma will fail, as there will be no throughput from Level 3.
When you consider one of the aims of T-levels is to “meets the needs of industry and prepares students for entry into skilled employment, an apprenticeship or related technical study through further or higher education", I cannot understand why travel and tourism was not included as a T-level as this is what we in FE have been doing for the last 50 years.
To quote further: "T-levels offer students practical and knowledge-based learning at a school or college and on the job experience through an industry placement of at least 315 hours – approximately 45 days.”
This is what colleges across the UK have been doing for years. Most of our Level 3 students have progressed to the Pearson Higher National Diploma in International Travel and Tourism Management, then topped up to a full honour’s degree at the University of Sunderland.
Many of our graduates have attained 2:1 and first-class honours and master’s degrees. Many are now in prominent positions in the industry and a number returned as lecturers in travel and tourism.
The way forward seems to be a change of mind by government to offer a diploma similar to AVCE or introduction of a T-level in travel and tourism.
If all fails, then the colleges could develop (with the agreement of government) their T-level in business to meet the needs of those still wanting travel and tourism as a career, including progression to university.
Mike Renshaw is lecturer and programme leader for travel and tourism at Sunderland College
