Level 3 Travel and Tourism Course in Hitchin. Classes run at Hitchin Centre, full-time during the day, over 36 weeks. No tuition fees apply if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply, though an Advanced Learner Loan is available and financial help may be possible. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths, to enrol. The course covers the travel and tourism industry in depth, with work experience placements, trips, and guest speakers from airlines, hotel groups, and travel agencies built in.
Who this course is for
Our tourism and aviation courses include lots of opportunities for you to get hands on experience of the world of work, including:Work experience with businesses like TUI Group, Thomas Cook, Ibis and Hilton HotelsTrip and visits to Barcelona, Paris, Thorpe Park, Coca Cola and Sky TVEngagement with guest speakers from businesses like Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, TUI Group, Hays Travel and Thorpe ParkParticipation in Hays Travel Marketing Competition and placements in 5 star hotels through TUI Group and local travel agents.You will explore the key components of the industry introducing students to the wide variety of roles available in the working world such as resort rep, cabin crew and retail travel agent. This course is highly practical and supported by our Travel and Tourism team each of whom are industry experts.During the course you will be able to choose a specific career pathway that suits you and gain an additional level 2 qualification relevant to your intended destination.Pathways:Aviation Operations on the GroundThis pathway is specific to careers in airport check-in, airport baggage handling, passenger services, airside operations and landside operations.Air Cabin CrewThis pathway will equip you with the specific skills required to begin a career in air cabin crew roles.Cruise and Passenger ShippingThis pathway will equip you with the skills required to begin a career in a customer service role on board a cruise or passenger ship.Resort RepresentativesThis pathway will equip you with skills required to work in a customer service role within a holiday resort, students who complete this qualification will be guaranteed an interview with Thomas Cook.Travel ServicesThis pathway will equip you with the specific skills required to begin a career as a travel consultant for a tour operator.
Entry requirements
To gain entry onto this course, students require a minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above including English and Maths
What you will learn
You'll explore how the travel and tourism industry is structured and how it operates
You'll study customer service skills for travel and hospitality settings
You'll learn about global destinations, travel products, and how they are marketed
You'll develop knowledge of aviation and how airlines manage passengers and operations
You'll gain hands-on experience through work placements with travel and hospitality businesses
You'll take part in industry trips and visits to develop practical understanding
You'll engage with professionals from airlines, hotel groups, and travel agencies through guest speaker sessions
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Hitchin Centre, with learning supported by work experience placements, industry visits, and guest speaker sessions. Assessment is through a combination of coursework, assignments, and practical tasks linked to real industry contexts. You may also take part in competitions and hotel placements as part of your programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hitchin Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start. Note that there may be additional charges for trips and visits during the year. Contact Student Services for details on financial help that may be available.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Travel consultant, helping customers plan and book holidays
Cabin crew, working for an airline on passenger services
Hotel receptionist, front-of-house role in hospitality
Tour operator assistant, supporting holiday package sales and logistics
Airport customer service agent, assisting passengers at check-in or gates
Events coordinator, organising travel-related or hospitality events
Holiday rep, supporting tourists at resorts abroad
What you could study next
Level 4 or HNC in Travel and Tourism Management: a natural next step if you want to move into supervisory or management roles in the industry.
Degree in Tourism Management or Hospitality: many universities accept this level 3 travel and tourism qualification as part of their entry requirements.
Apprenticeship in Travel or Hospitality: combine earning with structured on-the-job training at a higher level.
