The future’s bright for Northumbria Tourism and Event students

More than 100 students from Northumbria University, Gateshead College and Newcastle College gathered to meet with some of the region’s top Tourism and Event leaders.

Organised by Northumbria University, Newcastle, in conjunction with The Institute of Travel and Tourism (ITT) students met with business leaders from Alnwick Garden, Beamish Museum, Parkdean Resorts, Emirates, NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI) and Marriott Hotels to gain insider knowledge and network with potential employers.

The event is called ITT ‘Future You’ which is an on the road event throughout the UK aimed at encouraging students to speak directly to industry professionals. It is a unique event for students to hear from inspirational professionals as well as an opportunity to engage and hear about career development and future opportunities.

Dr Helen Nicholson, Programme Leader for Tourism and Events Management at Northumbria University, said: “The Institute of Travel and Tourism is the only professional body for individuals employed within the industry in the UK. This event and the caliber of the employers in attendance is a measure of the quality of the teaching provided by Newcastle Business School’s Tourism and Events Management programme. The event is a fantastic opportunity for students to hear from industry experts, with advice that is vital and realistic to their studies.”

Cath Hindle, Head of Operations and Tourism at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, praised the event held at Northumbria University.

She said: “It's rare to find an event of this nature that is as useful to the speakers as it is to the participants. I was genuinely proud to be involved and meet some of the future tourism leaders that the North East is producing.”

Kate Harland, Senior Event Manager at Marriott Hotels, added: “The ITT Future You Roadshow is a fantastic showcase of travel, tourism and hospitality workforces from our region, providing opportunities for students to gain insider knowledge as well as networking with their prospective employers. As a Northumbria University alumnus, it’s great to share past experiences to offer guidance and encouragement that will inspire their future careers.”

Northumbria University is an ITT Centre of Excellence. To hear more about the event and the BA (Hons) Tourism and Events Management programme please contact Dr Helen Nicholson at helen.p.nicholson@northumbria.ac.uk