Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Tourism Centre of Excellence status secured
Leeds Beckett became the first University to receive the ITT Centre of Excellence status relating to the provision across a whole School, in 2012. The kitemark has now been renewed by the ITT Education and Training Committee for another three years.
Professor Rhodri Thomas, Dean of the School of Events, Tourism and Hospitality Management, said: “We are delighted to receive confirmation that our tourism programmes are valued by the UK’s largest professional association. This accolade is used selectively by the ITT to promote those who are very focused on providing graduates who can flourish in the industry. They were very interested in knowing about our courses and where our graduates went on to work. By all accounts, they were very impressed by the illustrations we were able to give of students progressing in their careers.
“Though not often commented upon, the ITT also consider the extent to which the applicant university provides leadership to the sector via its research. In that respect they are looking for research relevance as well as academic quality. We strive to undertake research which has practical application, as well as academic worth, in much of our work. It’s very encouraging to see that our efforts have been acknowledged in this way.
“As an ambitious School with multiple objectives, we see this as a very important feather in our cap.”
Leeds Beckett’s ITT Centre of Excellence status brings with it many benefits for students. These include:
- The ITT Student Ambassador Scheme. Each ITT Centre of Excellence has two students as official ITT Student Ambassadors each year. This offers special access to senior industry figures as well as access to two exclusive corporate events.
- Each Centre of Excellence is able to offer an award to one of its students. The award is presented at an event held at the House of Commons.
- The ITT has a range of membership networking events that students can attend.
For more information please visit www.itt.co.uk
ITT is the only professional membership body for the UK travel and tourism industry. It allows students to raise their profile, take advantage of networking opportunities with key players in the sector and to enhance their CVs and future career prospects.