Level 2 BTEC First Award in Travel and Tourism

Our Travel curriculum inspires students to embrace new experiences, take calculated risks and explore innovative ideas. Through enriching lesson activities and trips, students gain valuable knowledge, skills and understanding. We encourage learners to step beyond their comfort zones, discover diverse cultures and destinations, and examine how tourism operates across the globe.

We design our classroom experiences to foster independent learning and critical thinking. Students engage in research-based tasks, thought-provoking questions and extension activities that stretch their abilities. Formal written assessments, coursework preparation and exam practice provide a structured yet stimulating environment where students are challenged to excel and grow.

Our curriculum equips students with the tools to manage pressure, meet deadlines and reflect on their progress. By revisiting and refining coursework, learners build resilience, develop problem-solving skills, and gain confidence in their academic and personal capabilities.

The Travel curriculum nurtures curiosity by encouraging students to explore global destinations and understand the complex factors influencing tourism – political, economic and environmental. Through engaging case studies, students deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the diverse and dynamic world of travel.

Collaboration is at the heart of our Travel lessons. Students work in teams to develop communication and critical thinking skills, fostering a supportive learning environment where ideas are shared and mutual respect is cultivated.

• GCSE English Language grade 3
• GCSE Maths grade 3
• 2 GCSEs graded 3 (or above)

Students are able to study GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths while doing this qualification.

Key Learning Aims:

• Understand the travel and tourism sector and its economic importance
• Explore UK and international destinations
• Develop customer service and communication skills
• Plan travel itineraries and respond to customer needs
• Understand external factors like climate, health and emergencies

Structure

Mandatory Units (90 GLH):

• Unit 1: The UK Travel and Tourism Sector (External Exam)
• Unit 2: UK Travel and Tourism Destinations
• Unit 3: The Travel and Tourism Customer Experience (Synoptic)

Optional Units (30 GLH) – This unit must also be completed.

• Unit 5: Factors Affecting Worldwide Travel and Tourism

Learning and lesson delivery is face to face, onsite.

Students are empowered to think critically and work independently. Through research tasks and applied learning, they connect theory to real-world scenarios. The course encourages learners to question, analyse and form their own perspectives rather than passively accepting information.

• Internal: assignments, projects, presentations
• External: 1 hour 15-minute exam for Unit 1
• Grading:  Pass → Level 2 Distinction*
• Points-based: the final grade is calculated from unit scores and exam score

This qualification can lead to:

• BTEC Nationals (Level 3)
• Apprenticeships in travel, tourism or hospitality
• Further academic study

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk