4 July 2024
Students from several local high schools have been given a taste of the tourism and hospitality sectors thanks to a special Tourism Takeover Day event at Fife College.
Held at the College’s Kirkcaldy Campus, the event provided hands-on learning and unique insights into the industry for pupils from Dunfermline High School, Bell Baxter High School, Balwearie High School, Lochgelly High School and Levenmouth Academy.
Amongst the industry involved were representatives from The Scottish Deer Centre who shared insights on modern zoos, focusing on conservation and research. Pupils also received advice on crafting effective job applications and CVs. Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum emphasised that everyone is a tourist and highlighted local areas as tourist hotspots, showing that tourism extends beyond iconic landmarks.
Greener Kirkcaldy and Fife College’s Sustainability Team discussed the environmental impact of UK versus international travel with pupils, encouraging sustainable travel practices while students also experienced the latest advancements in educational technology with VR headsets and treadmills in the College's new Learning Innovation Hub.
There was also an opportunity to practise serving drinks, delivering safety briefings and trying on uniforms in the College's state-of-the-art aircraft training cabin, as well as the chance to learn professional techniques of balancing plates and serving etiquette, essential for careers in hospitality.
The event was made possible by partners including Fife Council, DYW Fife, Fife Tourism Partnership, and InvestFife.
ade possible by partners including Fife Council, DYW Fife, Fife Tourism Partnership, and InvestFife.
Adam Fairweather, Academic Head for Business, Enterprise and Tourism with Supported Programmes at Fife College, said:
“Our Tourism Takeover Day offered a fantastic opportunity for pupils to gain first-hand experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
“By engaging with industry professionals and participating in practical activities, they have gained valuable insights into a fast-paced, dynamic sector which offers a wide range of career options.
“We are proud to collaborate with our partners to inspire the next generation of tourism and hospitality professionals."
For more information about Tourism, Events and Hospitality courses on offer at Fife College visit our course pages.