Walsall College Travel and Tourism students had their boarding passes at the ready when flight attendants from one of the biggest airlines in the world arrived to give them an insight in to careers with Virgin Atlantic. Eve Tonks started her career in the travel industry over 15 years ago and spent a day with Level 1 and 2 students to help prepare them for potentially working for the airline.
Students learnt about Virgin’s recruitment process and what it’s like working for the company, received a practical demonstration on preparing a cabin for take-off, and took part in mock interviews, team building activities and aptitude tests.
Eve also offered students advice about working in the industry and answered their individual questions during one-to-one sessions.
Curriculum Manager for Travel and Tourism at Walsall College, David Higgins, said: “This was a very useful and fun learning experience for students, which has enhanced their knowledge of the airline industry.
“Participating in the day has also given students a fascinating insight in to the dynamic and expanding Virgin brand and increased their potential success when applying for related roles.”
Work Experience Co-ordinator at Walsall College, Jaswant Sembhi, explained: “Industry visits like this, alongside other initiatives including work experience, are a key part of the courses at the college as we look to ensure that our students leave with more than just their qualification. We aim to produce students who are ‘work ready’ and have the employability skills, which employers look for.”
Student, Bassama Njie, 18, said: “It was great to hear first-hand what it’s like to be part of the cabin crew and I’ve learnt so much today. It’s made me even more excited about working in the industry.”
