HNC has shared how a group of Travel and Tourism students have enjoyed a behind the scenes look at the Leeds First Direct Arena as part of their exploration of careers in event management. Organised by Leeds Beckett University, the group were able to enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the arena and hear from the events operations team.
The First Direct Arena is a huge venue with a capacity of 13,781 guests, and has hosted world leading artists ranging from Sir Elton John and Pharrell Williams to Miley Cyrus and Championship Boxing matches. Students studying Travel and Tourism can progress on to a wide range of careers in related fields including events management and marketing.
During the visit the group were able to hear and learn more about the logistical planning that goes into large scale events, and hear from the operations team about their daily working lives – including the key personality traits needed to successfully work in events, and learn more about how they had entered the profession. The group also were able to take a look at the arena plan for events, take a sneak peek into the dressing rooms used by the stars, and join a Q&A roundtable with industry and university experts.
Amanda Beirne, Teacher of Travel and Tourism comments: “Whilst Applied Travel and Tourism naturally does lead to progression in the travel sector, it does also support entry to much wider range of career paths as students cover topics such as events management and marketing. The trip to the First Direct Arena was a valuable opportunity to bring learning to life, and hear from real life experts about how large scale events are planned, marketed and successfully delivered. It was a fascinating visit which genuinely stretched their knowledge, and inspired our group about the possibilities available to them beyond the travel sector.”
In Year 11 and interested in learning more about our Applied Travel and Tourism course? Then don’t miss our upcoming Open Event series. Click here for further information.
