Selby College Business & Travel Newsletter Spring 2025
Department Newsletter
Welcome
Greetings from Selby College’s Business & Management and Travel & Tourism Department!
I’m Ben Porter, Head of Business and Travel & Tourism, and I’m pleased to share a few words with you as you explore the exciting possibilities these industries have to offer.
Whether your interests lie in business, marketing, finance, travel or tourism, you’re looking at sectors full of opportunity, creativity and real-world impact. These industries shape the way we work, explore the world, and connect with others.
We believe in learning that goes beyond the classroom. From team-building activities like escape room challenges to industry visits with organisations such as Jet2 and Flamingo Land, our approach is rooted in hands-on experience. It’s all about developing the practical skills and confidence that help you succeed, wherever your journey takes you.
So whether you’re considering higher education, looking into apprenticeships, or exploring potential career paths, know that there’s a world of opportunity waiting for you. Your future in business or travel could start anywhere—and we’re here to help inspire that first step.
Wishing you all the best as you move forward.
Students put their Teamwork to the Test at Mindlock Escape Games!
Our Business students put their problemsolving skills to the test as they took on the ultimate challenge at Mindlock Escape Games as part of their Team Building unit assessment.
Competing in a Cluedo-themed escape room, the students had to work together, think creatively, and solve puzzles under pressure—all while racing against the clock!
Their teamwork and determination were on full display as they tackled the mystery, with some clever thinking and great communication leading to success.
The team at Mindlock made the experience both exciting and informative, helping to bring learning to life in such a fun way.
What a fantastic way to develop key skills whilst having a brilliant time!
Ben Porter Head of Business and Travel & Tourism
Our Travel & Tourism students had an amazing day visiting Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, gaining a fascinating insight into the aviation and holiday industry.
Students were given a behind-the-scenes look at how Jet2 operates, from customer service and airline operations to holiday planning and destination management. It was a brilliant opportunity to see first-hand what it takes to run a successful airline and tour operator.
The visit was not only inspiring but also incredibly valuable for students considering careers in the travel and tourism sector. The team at Jet2 were so welcoming and were
happy to share their expertise—it was an unforgettable experience!
Who knows? We might have some future Jet2 employees among us!
Business Students Gain Real-World Insights at Flamingo Land
Our Business students had an exciting and informative day at Flamingo Land, where they gained valuable industry insights through a business and marketing talk designed specifically for first-year students.
The session explored how Flamingo Land operates as a successful business, covering key topics such as branding, customer engagement and marketing strategies—giving students a real-world understanding of what it takes to run a major attraction. Meanwhile, second-year students took part in a sustainability talk, learning about the park’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and how businesses can balance profit with environmental responsibility.
Of course, no trip to Flamingo Land would be complete without experiencing the thrills of the park itself! Despite the rain, students made the most of their visit, braving the rides and enjoying the day.
This trip was a fantastic opportunity for our Business students to see classroom theory in action, deepening their knowledge and giving them inspiration for their future careers. A huge thank you to Flamingo Land for such an insightful and engaging experience!
Sweet Success for Travel & Tourism Students at York’s Chocolate Story!
First-year Travel & Tourism students enjoyed a deliciously educational day out at York’s Chocolate Story, immersing themselves in the history of chocolate while getting hands-on with some tasty treats!
As part of their studies on UK visitor attractions and customer service, students gained first-hand insight into how an attraction operates— whilst also making (and tasting!) their own chocolate lollies and truffles along the way.
The experience will now help them bring their assignment work to life back at college, using everything they learned about customer experience and visitor engagement.
A fantastic day of learning, creativity, and of course, lots of chocolate!
