Island students learn how Wightlink supports tourism on the Isle of Wight

Travel and tourism students quizzed Wightlink staff about operations and marketing on a visit to the Isle of Wight ferry operator.

They spent time on the Bridge of the Fishbourne-Portsmouth ship St Clare and talked to Captain Mike Smith about his career and the challenges of sailing the Solent in all weathers. The seven-strong group also questioned Digital Marketing Manager Chris Cowley on how Wightlink encourages mainlanders to visit the Isle of Wight.

“I was impressed at the range and depth of questions posed by the students,” says Chris. “I’m sure they will have successful careers in travel and tourism.”

The young people are studying a BTEC Level Three National Certificate in Travel and Tourism, equivalent to one A Level, at the Island VI Form.

Tourism contributes £520million to the Isle of Wight’s economy every year and around a third of jobs on the Island are tourism-related. Wightlink works with accommodation providers and attractions throughout the year and is one of the major funders of Visit Isle of Wight, which promotes the Island as a great holiday destination.

The students’ trip to the mainland also included study visits to Portsmouth’s new Transport Interchange at The Hard and the Historic Dockyard.

Teacher Katherine Allen says: “It was hugely beneficial for the students to have the chance to see the theory of their subject put into practice in the real world. It was inspiring for the students to witness the routes into careers in travel and where their BTEC National in Travel and Tourism can take them.”

Picture caption: (L-R) Reannon Potts, Callum Fry, India Street, Teachers Katherine Allen and Helen McCarthy, Daniel Highsmith, Katie Bridgford, Charlotte Vickers, Lara Groves

For more information, contact Karen Woods on 07775 694266 or [email protected]