Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 3 Extended Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Study times |
You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 16:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements |
A minimum of 4 GCSE passes at grade 4 or above, including maths and English, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at Merit level. You will also be required to pass an interview. |
| Campus |
West Suffolk College Sixth Form campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
This prestigious academic qualification, equivalent to 3 A Levels, will provide you with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to be successful in this global industry.
You will study the Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Year 1 and the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Year 2, supporting your progression to higher education and employment.
As part of the course, you will gain valuable work-related experience to give you the insight and connections for working in tourism. You can also take part in trips including a European residential visit.
This is a fun and dynamic industry where teamwork is key, and every day is a new and exciting challenge. If you're committed to delivering excellent customer service, a career in Travel and Tourism can take you across the world and give you unique experiences and opportunities.
This course is proudly sponsored by Fred Olsen and Premier Travel.
What you'll learn
This qualification comprises the following units:
- The World of Travel and Tourism
- Events, Conferences and Exhibitions
- Working Overseas, Global Destinations
- Managing the Customer Experience in Travel and Tourism
- Travel and Tourism Enterprises
- UK as a Destination
- Sustainable Tourism
Additional qualifications in airline cabin crew and other related areas may also be studied during your time at West Suffolk College.
Any student who does not hold a GCSE at grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
You will need to spend approximately £100 per year to cover the cost of course-related trips and visits.
The European residential trip would be priced when booked but will be in the region of £350-£450. Trips can cost £100 for UK based trips and the overseas trip can be in the region of £350-£450.
A laptop is also advised as all coursework will need to be submitted electronically.
You will also need standard learner stationery.
Work experience placements
Work experience is a key component of the Study Programme - you'll need to undertake mandatory work experience where you can enhance existing skills, as well as further developing transferable skills in a Travel and Tourism context. In addition, you can take part in an industry work placement one day a week. These are yearlong placements which work around the course timetable, giving learners the opportunity to gain a more in-depth experience which can be linked to existing part-time employment. In the past students have undertaken placements at a wide range of Travel and Tourism organisations including Center Parcs, Premier Inn, TUI, Fred Olsen and Co-Op Travel.
Assessment
There are two exams in Year 1 and the rest of the assessment is made up of assignments that are set by the different unit lecturers and graded at pass, merit or distinction.
1-1 recorded feedback and individual targets are given at key milestones during the year. All work is assessed and verified internally with a sample sent for external moderation. Final qualifications are awarded at either a pass, merit or distinction level.
This qualification will provide you with the relevant UCAS points for university entry.
Example careers
- Airline Pilot
- Airline Customer Service Agent
- Cabin Crew
- Airport Information Assistant
- Cruise Ship Steward
- Heritage Officer
- Hotel Manager
- Museum Attendant
- Resort Representative
- Tour Manager
- Tourist Guide
- Travel Agency Manager
- Sailing Instructor
- Visitor Attraction Manager
- Housekeeper
- Tourist Information Centre Manager
Days & times
Starting September 2025