Cookie Notice

This website uses cookies to ensure the best experience. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. Learn more about privacy policy.

Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism

"St Helens College gave me the opportunity to go out and see the world"


Olivia

Travel and Tourism alumna, Olivia is jet-setting around the world with luggage in tow after securing an exciting career with the UK's biggest airline, British Airways, as Cabin Crew.

Olivia’s career has already taken her to some amazing destinations around the world, from Seattle, Boston and Philadelphia to Thailand and Cape Town. Her most recent trip was to Nairobi, where despite only spending 24 hours there, she had the opportunity to visit an elephant orphanage and giraffe centre.

After completing her GCSEs at Deanery CE High School, Olivia pursued her passion for travel by joining the level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism at St Helens College. Olivia felt a more vocational study route would be beneficial for her as it would give her dedicated time to study the one subject that she had a real passion for, and allow her to develop a real insight into the industry she wanted to develop a career within.

Olivia, from Wigan, has always had an interest in travel saying, “Growing up, I always loved getting out and seeing different places whether it was a long car journey, or going on holiday. Aeroplanes and plane journeys always fascinated and excited me.”

Broadening her horizons, Olivia was struck on the prospects of university and with tutors keen to push Olivia to her full potential, she applied. However, when a friend told her that British Airways were recruiting for full-time positions, her attention turned to this.

Using the skills and knowledge that she had developed at St Helens College, and with support from her tutors, Olivia successfully passed an online assessment for a position as Cabin Crew with British Airways. This led to a successful interview in London. Speaking about her success Olivia said, “The College have always been helpful and supportive in helping us find employment and notifying us of any new positions which become available. They have all worked in industry and have amazing links. Their advice and insight is invaluable.”

Olivia began her vigorous 6-week training programme throughout the summer to gain her wings at the British Airways training base at Heathrow, gaining an understanding of the general procedures and theory behind airline safety. The training successfully left her with a Cabin Crew Attestation (CCA) qualification, valid for up to 5 years and recognisable across various aviation companies.

With the basics under her belt, Olivia commenced an additional four weeks British Airways New Entrant Training, from exploring aircraft safety, security and handling emergencies when airborne to customer service and aircraft conversion. Training was something Olivia felt really prepared for, she said, “My time at St Helens College has been vital when helping me to prepare for the role. I’ve had the opportunity to take part in fire and smoke training with Thomas Cook, wet drill training and we are trained to maintain the uncompromising standards that the industry expects in health and safety, customer service and uniform.”

Now that Olivia has settled into her new role, she fully intends to explore other progression opportunities with British Airways and hopes to visit many more exciting destinations both short and long haul.

Classroom
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism

Career
Air Cabin Crew, British Airways

Joined us from
The Deanery High School

Radio Campaign

Our Travel and Tourism student Olivia takes a starring role in our latest radio campaign. You can hear it by tuning in to Wish and Wire FM or listen here!

Eurocamp Logo
Swissport Logo
Jet2 Logo