Students are encouraged to reach their full potential thanks to inspirational speakers

Students learned about the world of work, thanks to presentations from inspirational speakers from Stansted Airport and one of the youngest chief executives of a local authority.

Travel and Tourism students at the Huntingdon campus were given advice about future careers during two events which encouraged them to plan for life after college.

The first was at Stansted’s Aerozone, where BTEC Level 2 learners engaged with cabin crew and trainers from Jet 2, Air Harrods, and Titan Airways.

They attended talks from representatives of organisations based at Stansted Airport, ranging from customer service managers to cabin crew and educational officers. The talks told how they progressed throughout their careers within the aviation industry.

The highlight of the day was going airside to watch flights landing and taking off.

Megan Miller, Travel and Tourism Tutor, said: “It was an inspirational event allowing the learners to see they can achieve success, through hard work and dedication.”

The second event was a visit from Rob Bridge, Chief Executive of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, who is one of the youngest CEOs in Local Authority in Britain – whose first job was at Huntingdonshire District Council.

Rob explained it was through determination and hard work that he has reached his career pinnacle. A former student of the Huntingdon campus of CRC, Rob studied a BTEC Business course, then followed qualification paths in AAT and CMI.

He landed his first job as a finance officer in Huntingdonshire District Council, progressing through the organisation and then working for other local authorities. He has been the CEO of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council for the past three years.

Rob discussed the skill sets needed, alongside the importance of experience as well as achieving Maths and English grades to a good standard. The value of apprenticeships within the workforce was also discussed.

Business tutor Elaine Groombridge said: “We are extremely grateful to people who inspire the next generation. It is a great experience for our students to have a spotlight shone on opportunities and to think about their career paths.”

•  To find out more about studying Travel and Tourism at Cambridge Regional College follow the link.