A group of students from West Suffolk College have just returned from a free five-day study trip to the Netherlands.
They were given this experience thanks to the generosity of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
The Suffolk-based cruise line paid for the learners and some staff members to go on this trip so that they could get a better understanding of career opportunities in the travel industry.
The youngsters – all studying on level three travel and tourism courses – spent their time on board the cruise ship MS Borealis.
Setting off from Newcastle, the journey took in visits to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
Whilst on board, the party had a series of talks, spoke to onshore and offshore services, had tours of the ship, explored the lower decks, went on to the bridge, got an insight into engineering, saw staff quarters and took part in various training classes such as mocktail making.
Tiffany Knights, 18, from Ipswich said: “It was such an amazing experience. The staff were lovely and everyone was included in the excursions. I learnt that sustainability was very important to Fred. Olsen and they are developing lots of plans to build on what they have already created.”
Tilly Winchester, 17, is from Watton in Norfolk. Tilly said: “The highlight for me was where we got to look behind the scenes. I also learnt lots about sustainability – and this has developed a real interest for me in this subject – I didn’t realise how much goes into it – and maybe I now want to consider going into a travel role that has a sustainable element to it.”
Teacher, Zoe Curran was quick to praise students and Fred. Olsen. She said: “”I am deeply grateful to Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for their generosity in making this life-changing opportunity possible. Their belief in our students and their potential, coupled with their support, has allowed us to provide such a valuable and transformative experience that will inspire and motivate our students for years to come.”
Sandy Powell, Head of Compliance and Sustainability at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines who led the trip, said: “It was a genuine pleasure to welcome the students aboard and offer them first-hand experience of life on board a cruise ship. As a local business, we take great pride in showcasing the many opportunities within the travel industry and doing our part to inspire the next generation of professionals.”
