5 things every Study From Home student needs

A reliable computer and internet connection is essential for studying from home – and coffee helps, too!

New to studying from home? Here are five things every distance learning student needs to thrive in a study from home setting.

1. Reliable internet connection

Our study from home tourism qualifications are taught online, so a reliable internet connection is a must. Make sure you have enough internet data to check your emails, submit your assignments, participate in forum discussions, and make the odd video or Skype call. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan if your internet becomes disconnected due to circumstances out of your control, such as bad weather. For example, your backup plan might be to study from the library or a friend’s house.

2. Laptop or desktop computer

You’ll also need a reliable laptop or desktop computer to work on your assignments – a tablet probably won’t quite cut it, unless it comes with an excellent keyboard and mouse. If you don’t have a computer, keep an eye on Trade Me for second-hand options, or consider borrowing one from a friend or family member for the duration of your course.

3. Cellphone or landline

Although most of your studying will be done online, it helps to pick up the phone every now and then. Your tutors are available to answer any questions you might have – be sure to give them a call whenever you encounter a challenge or are uncertain about any of the topics you’re studying. It’s also a good idea to speak to your tutors on the phone if you’re struggling to keep up with the workload. The sooner you let them know you need help, the easier they can help you find a solution.

4. A study plan

A realistic study plan is essential to your success as a study from home student. Without regular classes to attend or tutors to look over your shoulder, you need to be organised and self-motivated. A study plan helps you plan out your week and stick to a schedule so you stay productive and make the most of your study hours.

5. A study space or ‘study kit’

If possible, create a space in your home that’s dedicated to studying and set up your desk, computer, printer, and other essentials. If it’s not possible to create a home office, put together a ‘study kit’ instead – this is where you keep your laptop, study notes, and everything else you need to study in one portable box or bag, so you can set-up your study space anywhere from the kitchen table to the local cafe. The point is to make it as easy as possible for you to start studying, so you don’t waste precious time gathering your things together or looking for your computer cord.

Study From Home is enrolling now, with courses starting 21 August. Get in touch today to learn how a Study From Home qualification could get your airline, travel, and tourism career off to a flying start. 

Study From Home graduate Maria Vaifale shares her story

Studying from home with ITC allowed Maria, a single mother of three, to rediscover her love for the travel industry.

Every Study From Home student has their own unique story to tell. In this week’s blog post, recent graduate Maria Vaifale shares her special journey. From her very first tourism job to the moment she decided to study from home, Maria’s story is an inspiration to all.

“I knew a part of me was missing”

Maria, a Kiwi born Samoan, has always loved the travel industry. Her first job was as a Travel Consultant for AMA Travel in 1997. However, she gave up this job when she settled down and started a family.

It wasn’t until recently that Maria realised “a part of her was missing”. She realised that she still loved the travel industry and wanted to return to work in this sector.

“Despite all of the great jobs I had over the years (with awesome salaries), I knew a part of me was missing. I analysed my situation and automatically Travel Consultant came to my mind,” says Maria, who worked in sales for companies like Avis Rental Cars and NZ Post during her break from the travel industry.

“I knew I could be a Travel Consultant again as I had the experience and knowledge of the job itself. I also had support from friends who had faith in me, as they too were confident that I’d be able to restart this career.”

Maria started to look for correspondence courses so she could work around her kid’s school hours (she’s a single mother of three) when she came across Study From Home – and she hasn’t looked back.

“ITC radiated so much positive energy”

Maria says ITC’s website and student success stories inspired her to apply, and that she was even more impressed with the College when she attended the Study From Home Orientation Day.

“There was so much positive energy in the atmosphere, not just from the tutors but also from the students. I was even more excited to commence my studies.”

“I enjoyed being able to complete the course at my own pace”

One of the main reasons many people choose to study from home is flexibility. For Maria, this was a huge bonus.

“I also loved having the awesome online team supporting me all the way, whether via phone call or email,” says Maria.

She adds that she was especially grateful for their constant motivation and encouragement.

“I’m thankful to have had such empathetic tutors, who were not going to give up on me but walked with me through my journey. I enjoyed the service from ITC and will miss everyone.”

“Now I work for Tourism Holdings as a Booking Host”

After completing her Level 4 qualification, Maria was accepted to work for Tourism Holdings in Mangere as a Booking Host (Reservation Agent).

“This job works with clients from America, Europe, and Australia. I provide pre-travel and on-hire guidance and advice, as well as issue accurate quotations and bookings for car and motorhome rentals to domestic and international clients,” says Maria.

She hopes this role will get her one step closer to her dream job, which is to work as a Travel Consultant for Air New Zealand.

“Your tutors are there for you – to guide you and answer your questions”

Maria has plenty of advice for people who are considering studying from home.

“You need to be motivated, focused, and determined to persevere through the ups and downs of your course. Ask your tutors a lot of questions via phone or email. Don’t be shy, otherwise your question will never be answered. No question is stupid, so don’t doubt yourself,” says Maria.

“Also, set a time for you to study with no interruptions. Be consistent with your studies but also realistic. Remember why you’re doing the course and think of the end line, because that’s what you’re aiming for – to graduate!”

Her final words are if she can do it, anyone can.

“I am 40 years old and a single mother… if I can complete my Travel Level 4, so can you. Go for gold and all the best!”

Are you inspired by Maria’s story? Study From Home is enrolling now with courses starting on 21 August. It’s not too late to apply – get in touch today to register your interest.

How to get a good reference from your Study From Home tutor

A glowing reference from your Study From Home tutor could help you stand out from other candidates.

When you start to apply for tourism jobs, a glowing reference from your Study From Home tutor will go a long way.

It’s worth keeping this in mind as you complete your studies – you want to do everything you can to get a good reference at the end of your course.

Here are some tips:

Treat your studies like a first job

A good way to make a positive impression on your tutors is to treat your studies like a first job. Be professional, punctual, and polite. Take your studies seriously, but also show plenty of enthusiasm and curiosity. Be excited to learn, ask questions, and let your passion for travel and tourism shine through.  

Form a positive relationship with your tutor

When you study from home, you can be relatively independent and do a lot of your work online. That said, take the time to call your tutor every now and then – they are there to help you succeed. Talking on the phone regularly will also help your tutor get to know you better, allowing them to provide a more detailed reference when the time comes.

Hand in your assignments on time

When providing a reference, a tutor will be honest with the potential employer about your commitment to your studies. If you handed in assignments late or missed important deadlines, they may feel obliged to reveal this information to the interviewer. If you’re falling behind on your studies, talk to your tutor as soon as you can – they may be able to help you find a solution.

Ask your tutor if they’d be willing to provide a reference

The Study From Home tutors love providing references for their students and helping them get their first job – but it’s still important to ask if you can include their contact details on your CV. That way, they will know to expect a phone call and won’t be caught off-guard if it comes out of the blue.

Ask your tutor for interview tips and tricks

Your tutor wants to see you do well. They want nothing more than for you to ace your job interview and start working in the industry. Take advantage of their expertise and ask for feedback and advice. This shows that you’re motivated and focused, and will inspire them to give you a great reference when the time comes.

Study From Home is enrolling now. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you kickstart your airline, travel and tourism career. 

Local i-SITEs still well-used by tourists

A group of ITC students outside the i-SITE centre in Matamata. i-SITEs are still well-used by visitors and form an important part of local tourism communities.

Local i-SITE centres are still popular with international visitors, despite the rising availability of online bookings and travel apps – in what is likely welcome news to tourism workers throughout regional New Zealand, where i-SITEs form a strong part of small tourism communities.

i-SITE executive director Paul Yeo recently spoke about the performance of i-SITE centres at a one-day conference in Wellington. He said that around eight million visitors use i-SITEs every year, resulting in a collective spend of about $76m.

Mr Yeo says this spend is decreasing as many visitors choose to book activities and tours through alternative sources – but that i-SITEs still have an important role to play.

“i-SITEs play a critical role in promoting local business, events and council and community services to those eight million visitors,” says Mr Yeo in a press release.

“They are central to keeping people in a region for longer, to experience more of a region than they might have first considered.”

He adds that i-SITEs also play a critical role in informing visitors (both domestic and international) about safety, such as safe driving and freedom camping. i-SITEs are also an important source of information in the event of a natural disaster.

At Study From Home, we believe i-SITEs can be an excellent source of information for tourism students, too. If you’re interested in working in the tourism industry in your local region, paying a visit to the nearest i-SITE is a good place to start. You can get a feel for what types of tourism businesses operate in the area – and, therefore, what types of jobs might be available.

With Study From Home, you can study airline, travel and tourism from anywhere in New Zealand – all you need is a reliable internet connection, a computer or laptop, and a motivation to succeed.

To learn more about our Study From Home courses, including how you can enrol in 2017, get in touch today. We’ve love to help you kickstart your career in airline, travel and tourism.

Five reasons to study from home in Auckland

Just because you live in Auckland doesn’t mean you can’t study from home. Distance learning might be the best option for you.

If you live in Auckland, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to on-campus study options. That said, have you ever considered studying from home? Just because you can commute to class doesn’t mean it’s the right option for you.

Here are five reasons why you might want to consider studying from home in Auckland instead.

1. Escape the commute

It’s no secret that public transport in Auckland is expensive, especially if you live far away from the city centre. Save money (and time!) by ditching the commute and studying from home instead. Just think of how much study you could get done in the time you’d spend sitting on a bus, train, or ferry.

2. Study part-time

If you need to study part-time hours due to childcare or work commitments or even just personal preferences, then studying from home is a good option. Our on-campus courses are all full-time (at least 40 hours a week), but with distance learning you can choose to study for 20 hours a week if you prefer.

3. Enjoy a flexible lifestyle

Are you one of those people who thrive on flexibility? Do you love mixing up your routine every week and do you have great time management skills? If so, you will love the freedom of studying from home. You are able to set your own schedule and study when it suits you best. As long as you meet the deadlines for your assignments, you’re free to create your own hours.

4. Juggle study and kids

Many Auckland-based parents choose to study from home so they can juggle getting a qualification with looking after their little ones. You can choose to study full-time or part-time and fit your study schedule around your childcare obligations.

5. Get the best of both worlds

Studying from home in Auckland offers the best of both worlds. You live in New Zealand’s biggest city, which is overflowing with tourism jobs, so you won’t be short of job opportunities when you graduate. Yet, you can enjoy the flexibility of studying in your local community without needing to commute every day. By the time you graduate, you will be able to choose where in Auckland you’d like to kickstart your career. The opportunities are endless!

Study From Home is enrolling now for our airline, travel, and tourism courses. Get in touch today to find out how you could gain a qualification in this exciting industry.

Aviation, travel or tourism? Which qualification is right for you?

Which career pathway will you choose? Aviation, travel or tourism?

You know you want to study from home with ITC – you just have one big decision to make. Should you study aviation, travel or tourism?

We teach three courses via distance learning:

• New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3
• New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation Level 3
• New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4

 
Which qualification is right for you? Here is some more information about each course to help you decide.

The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3 is perfect if you:

• Are at the very beginning of your tourism career
• Want to keep your options open and discover your “dream job”
• Love learning about New Zealand tourism destinations

 
Even though it’s called the ‘New Zealand Certificate in Tourism’, this qualification covers some aviation and travel subjects, too – making it the perfect introduction to the entire industry. It’s a great place to start if you’d like to discover a wide range of career options.

The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation Level 3 is perfect if you:

• Know you want to work for an airline or at an airport
• Love all things aviation – planes are your jam!
• Want some help to find your dream aviation job

 
This qualification is a great introduction to a career with an airline or at an airport. If you want to be a flight attendant, check-in agent, customs officer, or work in customer service at an airport, then this course is a perfect fit. You’ll learn all about passenger handling, online ticketing & reservations, what it’s like to work for an airline, and much more.

The New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4 is perfect if you:

• Have already completed a Level 3 qualification
• Want to take your education to the next level
• Love learning about international travel and tourism

 
There’s a reason this qualification includes the word travel – it teaches you about the exciting world of international travel and tourism. If you dream of one day working overseas, you’ll love this course. It’s also ideal for students who wish to apply for management roles – having a Level 4 qualification will help your CV stand out from the rest.

So there you have it – three fascinating courses. What will it be: aviation, travel, or tourism? If you’d like some more help deciding, get in touch with the friendly Study From Home team. We’ll help you discover which course is right for you.

“Don’t let life get in the way of your dreams” says SFH graduate

Study From Home graduate Stacey Harris has some great advice for mums who would like to juggle studying with raising kids. Here she is pictured with her family at one of New Zealand’s famous Maori landmarks, Te Kohatu o Hatupatu. 

Study From Home graduate Stacey Harris started dreaming about travel as a young girl, listening to her aunt’s travel stories.

“My aunt told me stories about her OE. I found it so fascinating to hear about all the places she visited at the young age of 24!” says Stacey, who recently completed a travel and tourism qualification with ITC Study From Home.

Stacey was also inspired by her high school social studies teacher, who regaled the class with stories about Ancient Egypt and Greece.

One thing is for sure: Stacey is passionate about travel.

But she also understands the challenge of juggling travel with study and motherhood. As a mum to three children (aged 10, 4, and 2) Stacey knows what it’s like to be a busy, multi-passionate mum – and she has some advice for other mums who are thinking about studying from home.

“Take the plunge. Take the first step. APPLY!” says Stacey.

“If you are anything like me, and you’re passionate about travel, I urge you to take this amazing opportunity to further your skills and knowledge. Life sometimes gets in the way of the career you always wanted, but with Study From Home you can make it work.”

She says studying as a mum is not always easy, but it’s so rewarding – and so worth the effort.

“Your studies will challenge you like never before. You may lose sleep (but sleep, what is that?). You may stress to meet deadlines and bite your nails waiting for your results. But, when it’s all said and done, and you graduate with that Certificate or Diploma in your hand and those little faces looking up at you – up TO you – smiling with pride and joy, well… there’s no greater reward!”

Stacey adds that studying with ITC isn’t all hard work – it’s also a lot of fun. Her favourite part of the course was learning about all the different travel options and experiences.

“From overnight luxury train travelling to luxury coach tours and my favourite, cruises! I loved learning about all the different cruise options, from the big cruise lines to the small ships. It was amazing, so the next holiday on the bucket list is definitely saving to do a family cruise,” says Stacey.

But before she sails away, she’s settling into her new job as Reservations Consultant for Millennium Hotels – a role she found soon after graduating.

“Upon completion of my course I took a short, much-needed holiday with my partner to Fiji, and then I got stuck into job hunting. I was extremely lucky to get an interview and be offered the job all in the space of 10 days,” says Stacey.

“I love my new job. It’s exciting, fun, and challenging all in one,” she added.

If you love travel as much as Stacey, and you’re looking for a fun new career, a travel and tourism qualification could be perfect for you.

“Travel and tourism is not just a job. It’s not even just a career. It’s an adventure, it’s a challenge, it’s a journey. And it’s YOUR journey!” says Stacey.

“The world is your oyster, you get to personalise it however you like. So get out there and start your journey today. Start it here with the International Travel College of New Zealand.”

Study From Home is enrolling now for the second half of 2017. Get in touch today to learn how we can help you get your travel and tourism career off to a flying start.

Small towns around NZ welcome independent Chinese tourists

Many hospitality business owners in small towns around NZ have noticed an increase in independent Chinese tourists recently.

Independent Chinese tourists are contributing to a spending boom in some regional New Zealand towns, Stuff.co.nz recently reported.

According to Stuff’s report, many hospitality business owners have noticed an increase in independent Chinese tourists over recent months. By ‘independent’, they mean Chinese tourists who are organising their own trips and itineraries – as opposed to tourists who are travelling on a pre-organised coach tour.

When people travel independently, they are more likely to spend longer in small towns, and therefore spend more money.

As ASB Bank senior regional economist Nathan Penny told Stuff, “the tourism boom is sharing the love around the regions now”.

Chinese tourism poised for more growth

This Chinese tourism boom is likely to continue over the coming years, especially since New Zealand and China have teamed together to designate 2019 as the ‘China-New Zealand Year of Tourism’.

“The publicity around the Year of Tourism is likely to increase interest in New Zealand as a holiday destination among the Chinese,” Tourism New Zealand’s acting chief executive, Brighid Kelly, said in a press release last month.

“China is our second biggest tourism market and still growing. More than 400,000 Chinese visit each year, creating numerous opportunities for the industry,” Ms Kelly added.

Good news for tourism graduates in regional New Zealand

The growth of New Zealand’s regional tourism industry will likely come as good news for tourism graduates living in small towns.

When tourists go off the beaten track and explore New Zealand’s regional gems, they inject money into local businesses and help local economies thrive.

If you live in regional New Zealand, why not make the most of the tourism boom by embarking on a career in airline, travel or tourism?

ITC’s Study From Home courses are open for enrolment now – a great opportunity for you to gain a tourism qualification from wherever you live in New Zealand. Get in touch today to learn more about our exciting distance learning qualifications.

Study tip: Stay up-to-date with NZ’s airline, travel and tourism news

Sign up to the ITC Industry News Bulletin (link below) to stay up-to-date with the latest news from New Zealand’s exciting airline, travel and tourism industry.

Staying up-to-date with New Zealand’s airline, travel and tourism news is a great way to prepare for a career in this exciting industry.

If you follow the news, you’ll learn things such as:

• What regions are attracting the most tourists
• Where there’s a huge demand for skilled workers
• The types of jobs available for tourism graduates
• How much money the government is investing in tourism
• The number of jobs created by the tourism industry
• New flight paths and airlines coming to New Zealand

 
The more you know about the industry, the better you’ll be able to prepare for your first job. You’ll be able to impress potential employers with your knowledge – it’s a great way to show them that you’re passionate about your career.

How to stay up-to-date

The International Travel College has made it SUPER easy for you to keep up with NZ’s latest airline, travel and tourism news.

Every Thursday, ITC sends out an ‘Industry News Bulletin’ – a short email that summarises the week’s top airline, travel and tourism stories.

ITC does the hard work of selecting the most interesting stories, so all you need to do is pour yourself a cup of tea and take 10 minutes to read through the headlines and summaries.

Signing up is simple – just follow this link, enter your email address and click ‘Subscribe to List’. You’ll then get sent a confirmation email to your inbox (make sure you click ‘Confirm Subscription’).

It’s that easy! Within a few weeks, you’ll be “in the know” about the latest airline, travel and tourism trends from around New Zealand. Keep an eye out for trending stories in a town near you – you could stumble across the job of your dreams.

ITC Study From Home donates $1,000 to community playground

Children love the new Waimauku Playground, to which ITC Study From Home generously donated $1,000.

The children of Waimauku have a wonderful new playground thanks to the generosity of the Waimauku Lions and supporting businesses, including ITC Study From Home.

Study From Home donated $1,000 to the Waimauku Lions Centennial Adventure Playground, which officially opened on February 25.

Former prime minister John Key opened the playground alongside a local boy, Jamie Harnett. Jamie celebrated his 5th birthday last year, and instead of asking for presents, he asked all his friends and family to donate some money towards the playground. The community-minded five year old (pictured right) raised $350.

ITC’s Level 5 Programme Leader, Carla Sutton, says the Waimauku playground was an ideal project for Study From Home to sponsor.

“The Waimauku community and its surrounding suburbs are just far enough away from the city centre to make commuting to College a challenge for locals, especially those with children,” says Carla.

“With Study From Home, they can study towards an airline, travel or tourism qualification from home in Waimauku, without battling the traffic or public transport every day.”

Carla is also a longstanding member of the Waimauku Lions. On behalf of the community group, she thanks ITC and the rest of the contributing businesses for their support.

“We couldn’t have done this without all the generous donations we received from local businesses. We know the families of Waimauku will cherish this playground for decades to come.”

Regional tourism boom creates jobs throughout New Zealand

Regional tourism expenditure grew in most regions around New Zealand in 2016, creating jobs throughout the country.

Do you live in regional New Zealand? If so, you might want to consider studying towards a qualification in tourism.

According to the latest estimates from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), tourism expenditure grew in most regions around the country throughout 2016.

The three fastest growing regions are located in the South Island. Nelson is leading the way with a 14 per cent increase in tourism expenditure. The West Coast is hot on its heels (up 13 per cent), followed by Otago (up 11 per cent).

More spend = more jobs

Tourism Minister Paula Bennett said tourism created thousands of jobs last year.

“Domestic and international tourism creates immense value for New Zealand, with tourism employing over 180,000 people in 2016,” Mrs Bennett said in a press release.

She added that the Government will continue to support the sector through investing in local infrastructure, especially in earthquake-affected areas.

“There is more work to do. The earthquake last November heavily affected the North Canterbury region, and though we are starting to see tourist spending recover slightly, it’s important we continue to market the area internationally, and encourage New Zealanders to keep visiting,” Mrs Bennett added.

Study tourism from anywhere in New Zealand

ITC’s Study From Home programme accepts enrollments from students all around the country, from Cape Reinga to the Bluff.

With Study From Home, you can access all course materials online – there’s no need to travel to a classroom. You will have support from dedicated Study From Home tutors via phone, email or video. You’ll also have access to an online forum, where you can ask questions and interact with other students studying the same course.

Contact us today to find out how you can kickstart your career in tourism.

Course spotlight: New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4

Discover the exciting world of international travel, ticketing and reservations, cruise ships, and more with the New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4.

Want to take your travel and tourism training to the next level?

The New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4 is a comprehensive qualification with a special focus on international travel.

You will cover topics such as travel, tourism, aviation, ticketing and reservations, and working on cruise ships. You will also get the chance to participate in some practical work experience.

Course length: 21 weeks (full-time) or 42 weeks (part-time)
Next start date: 23 October 2017

To find out more about this exciting qualification, we spoke with head tutor Ali Rigby. Here’s what she had to say about this course.

What is your favourite part of the course?

I love the Cruise and Coach & Overland topics. You learn all about the ins and outs of how each industry works. There’s also a research element which gives students a great opportunity to see what’s out there. By the end of these topics, you will feel really motivated to travel and experience it all for yourself.

What types of jobs could the NZ Certificate in Travel Level 4 lead to?

Jobs with airlines, hotels, travel agencies, wholesalers, adventure tourism… the sky’s the limit! The Level 4 qualification is a step above the Level 3 which means it will be favoured by most employers, especially if you also have some customer service experience. There is a huge range of jobs out there and I think the Level 4 course helps students figure out their career direction as you learn about each sector in-depth.

What advice would you give to students starting the course?

Stay motivated and stay on track with your study plan. Keep reminding yourself of the goals you want to achieve upon completing the course. Definitely use the tutors (that’s what we’re here for!) and fellow students for support. As you don’t have the classroom environment, it’s very important to reach out and communicate. Lastly – enjoy it, you’re already on the road to an exciting new career!

Applications for the New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4 are open now. Get in touch to register your interest and kickstart your career in airline, travel and tourism.

Course spotlight: New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation Level 3

Do you dream of working at the airport or for an airline? The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation could be just the course for you.

If you love airports, planes, people and of course travel, then you’ll probably love the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation.

This Level 3 qualification teaches you tourism with a particular focus on aviation. You’ll study topics such as airport security and passenger handling, and you’ll find out what it’s like to work as a flight attendant or member of the cabin crew. You’ll also learn about online reservations systems such as Amadeus.

Course length: 25 weeks (full-time) or 49 weeks (part-time)
Next start date: 21 August 2017

To find out more about this course, I spoke with head tutor Joy Carter. Here’s what she had to say.

What is your favourite part of the course?

Orientation Day. It is a real buzz to meet new students and see them embarking on a new journey. It’s a great introduction – a chance for them to meet fellow students, get to know more about the exciting travel and tourism industry, and how they will study online.

What types of jobs could this qualification lead to?

Airport-based roles such as check-in, ground support staff, customs, Ministry of Primary Industries, security, airport operations, customer service, retail.

It could also lead to airline roles, such as ticketing, flight attending, ground crew, customer service, baggage handlers and aircraft cleaners.

What advice would you give to students starting the course?

Immerse yourself in the industry. Take an interest in what is going on – this will be your future.

Be prepared to invest your time and energy into your studies for the short time it takes to complete the course.

Also, ask for support from family and friends.

Any further comments about this qualification?

Be fully prepared before starting. Make a plan and stick to it. Your tutors are there to support you – please make use of us.

Applications for the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a Strand in Aviation Level 3 are open now. Get in touch to register your interest and learn more about this exciting qualification.

Course spotlight: New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3

The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3 could really take you places.

Thinking about a career in travel or tourism? The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3 could be the perfect course to study from home.

An introduction to the world of travel and tourism, this qualification will teach you all about New Zealand geography and popular tourism destinations. You will also learn valuable communication and customer service skills to thrive in the industry.

Course length: 20 weeks (full-time) or 40 weeks (part-time)
Next start date: 23 October 2017

To learn more about the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3, I caught up with head tutor Richard Euston. Here’s what he has to say about this exciting qualification.

What types of jobs could this qualification lead to?

The list is endless – pretty much anything in the travel and tourism industry. Recently we’ve had graduates start work as travel agents, airport ground crew and on cruise ships.

There are also opportunities with hotels, car rental companies, coach tour operators and working at tourism activities, such as Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy.

One important thing to remember is that your first job in tourism won’t be your last, so take any opportunity you can to get started somewhere. You will find that career progression can happen very quickly!

What is your favourite part of this course?

Meeting our new students at our Orientation Workshop. It’s really the only time we get to meet the students after a lot of correspondence by phone and email, so it’s always great to put faces to names and find out what their aspirations are.

I would also say our annual graduation event is right up there, as it’s an opportunity for our students to celebrate their achievements and take a chance to reflect on all the hard work they have put in.

Having friends and family there makes it even more special, and there’s always such a great feeling of pride in the room.

What advice would you give to students starting the course?

Make sure you put together a study plan! Studying from home brings it’s own challenges so you need to be really organised and ensure that you have a plan in place to help you achieve. And don’t forget to ask questions and communicate with the ITC team – we’re here to help and we love talking to our students.

It’s also important to come to the course with an open mind and be ready to learn, and also with the knowledge you will be working hard and challenging yourself. And potentially in less than 6 months you can have an internationally recognised qualification which will get your new career started.

Ten ways to treat yourself over the Christmas break

The Christmas break is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and get ready for next year.

With the Christmas holidays just around the corner, it’s nearly time to set aside your study notes and relax for a few weeks. After months of putting study first, you can finally treat yourself to all your favourite activities.

Here are ten ways to make the most of your break so you come back to study feeling refreshed and rejuvenated in 2017.

1. Bake Christmas cookies with family

Nothing says “holiday season” like a Christmas baking session with family. Get together with loved ones to make some delicious spiced cookies or Christmas mince tarts.

2. Catch up on your favourite television shows

When you’re studying from home, there’s not much time to indulge in reality television or addictive Netflix series. Spend a day in your PJs and get up to speed with all your favourite shows.

3. Spend a day at the beach

Remember that day a few weeks ago when you were stuck inside studying while your friends were at the beach? You can make up for it this Christmas! On the next sunny day, grab your togs and head to the coast for a day of sun, sea and sand.

4. Go camping or hiking

Studying requires spending a lot of time inside. Make up for all the days you spent in the library by getting some fresh air. Go camping, fishing, on a long hike – whatever you do, enjoy time outside.

5. Be a tourist in your own backyard

You might be on a study break but that doesn’t mean you have to stop learning. Do a nearby tourist activity to experience your local tourism industry firsthand. Check out these ideas for inspiration.

6. Donate some food to families in need

Christmas isn’t just about relaxing and getting presents – it’s also about giving. See if you can donate some food (or time) to a local charity this year. Giving is good for the soul, and will help people in need.

7. Decorate the Christmas tree

If you haven’t done so already, spend a day putting up fairy lights, getting out the tinsel, and hanging baubles on your tree. This is fun and relaxing and will most definitely get you in the holiday spirit. Don’t forget to listen to your favourite Christmas carols as you decorate!

8. Catch up on sleep

Enjoy the sweet, sweet feeling of switching your alarm off for a few weeks. Nothing beats waking up naturally!

9. Read as many books as you like

Does the thought of curling up with a good book sound like pure bliss? Get out a stack from the library and read for pleasure instead of study.

10. Dedicate a day to doing “nothing”

Can you remember the last time you woke up with zero plans? Keep one day of your break completely free and enjoy having “nothing” to do – you’ll be surprised at how relaxing and indulgent it feels!

ITC Study From Home will be closed from Friday 16 December and reopens on Monday 9 January. Enjoy your study break and we will see you in the new year!

Record numbers of tourists visit regional New Zealand

Dunedin city on a sunny day. Otago is one of the fastest-growing regions for tourism in New Zealand.

There was once a time when winter would leave the streets of ‘small town New Zealand’ deserted. As the weather cooled, summer holidaymakers would head back to their homes, and communities would prepare for a lull in visitors.

Times are changing. This winter, many of New Zealand’s regions showed no signs of slowing down. The streets were still bustling, bars and restaurants heaving, cash registers chiming. A variety of languages could be heard in any coffee shop.

According to data from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), most regions saw an increase in tourism expenditure in the year to August 2016.

Nelson, for example, saw an 11.7 per cent increase in spending to $304 billion – making it the fastest growing region. Otago was hot on Nelson’s heels, with an increase of 9.6 per cent (to $3.2 billion).

New Zealand is well and truly in the midst of a tourism boom. And this is just the beginning. The tourism industry has set the goal of growing to $41 billion by 2025 – a big ambition that will need a strong, skilled workforce to become a reality.

In other words, there’s never been a better time to study travel and tourism. And thanks to the widespread growth of the industry, you don’t have to relocate to Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch to make your dream tourism career a reality.

Whether you live in the winterless north or the stunning south, on the east or west coast, or anywhere in between, there’s most likely a tourism job just around the corner from your home. You might find work at a local i-Site, a hotel or a bungy jump operator. Or maybe you will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at a youth hostel or work as a tour guide showing off the attractions in your region.

Whatever your dreams, ITC Study From Home can help you kickstart your travel & tourism career. We deliver airline, travel and tourism qualifications to students all around New Zealand via distance learning, meaning that you can study without needing to relocate to a bigger city. The only catch? You must be available to travel to Auckland for a workshop throughout your course – but what a great excuse to plan a trip to the big smoke!

Does this sound like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for? Contact us today to learn more about our travel and tourism courses. 

Meet the Study From Home team

The ITC Study From Home team is here to help you achieve your airline, travel or tourism qualification via distance learning.

At ITC Study From Home, you may study by yourself – but you’re never alone. The friendly team is here to support you every step of the way. From informative phone calls to encouraging emails, we help guide you through your coursework and ensure that you learn just as much as you would in a normal classroom environment.

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet us – as well as fellow distance learning students – in person at one of the Orientation Days on campus.

In the meantime, you can find out a little bit more about us by reading our bios below. As you will see, we’re a friendly, positive team backed by years of practical experience. We look forward to getting to know you better.

Carla – Distance Learning Tutor & Program Manager

Originally from the Netherlands, this is where Carla completed her travel and tourism training – gaining the equivalent of ATTTO level 3 and 4, as well as the IATA Instructors Foundation Diploma. Upon graduating, Carla worked in a large corporate travel agency for four years, before moving to New Zealand in 1989.

Once she arrived in New Zealand, Carla worked as a senior travel consultant and, later, a branch manager for Budget Travel (now known as Harvey World Travel). She then joined ITC in 1997, as a travel and tourism tutor, and then moved into an administrative role. Today, she manages the ‘Study From Home’ program.

“I really love managing the distance learning program,” says Carla.

“It’s great to meet people that share my passion for the travel and tourism industry, and who are keen to work in this field. Then to witness their success is simply the cherry on top!”

Carla enjoys her life in New Zealand with her husband Wayne and their daughters Louise and Monique. When she’s not working or studying, you’ll probably find her walking the dog at Muriwai Beach, pottering in the garden, or going on camping holidays around our beautiful country.

Richard – Distance Learning Tutor

After Richard left school, he worked for the New Zealand Herald in the advertising department. After four years there, he decided to follow his dream of travelling the world. First destination? The 1994 football world cup in the USA, followed by London.

His love of travel inspired him to take a break from advertising and apply for a job as a tour guide with Top Deck. He was successful and spent two European summers travelling to places like Russia, Morocco and Turkey – and getting paid for it!

When he eventually returned to New Zealand, he continued his travel career by working as a consultant for Flight Centre. He spent 10 years with the Flight Centre Group, then moved into an account management role at APX.

Now, he’s joined his wife Stacey (a tutor at the Botany Campus) and is working for ITC. Outside of this job, he’s involved in a business called Bumper Ball, plays social football, and enjoys spending time with friends and family. Together, he and Stacey have three beautiful daughters.

Joy – Distance Learning Tutor

Joy’s first career was in accounting, before her love of travelling attracted her to the tourism sector. After gaining a travel and tourism qualification, she spent ten years working as a travel consultant for the likes of Travel For Less, House of Travel, and Harvey World Travel. She found great fulfillment in selling many varied travel destinations and providing excellent customer service in order to satisfy customer needs. She developed a loyal customer base and many lasting relationships.

Joy joined ITC as a tutor at the Botany Campus in 2006. She loved working with the young, on-campus students and providing them with the training they needed for a career in travel and tourism. She was pleased to be given the opportunity to join the Study From Home team in 2015, and is now supporting and encouraging students who have taken on the challenges of distance learning.

An avid traveller, she has visited many exciting places all over the world.

“Amongst others, Santorini in the Greek Islands stands out as a magical place,” says Joy.

“In saying that, I have also been fortunate to visit many of our beautiful Pacific Island neighbours and their friendly people.”

She still thinks New Zealand is the best country in the world to live in, with its beautiful scenery and diverse culture. She enjoys her life here with her husband, two daughters, and four grandchildren. She works part-time at ITC so she can spend plenty of time with the little ones – the best of both worlds!

Ali – Distance Learning Tutor

Ali started her journey into travel and tourism in 2008 when she moved to Canada on a working holiday. She lived in Vancouver and worked in a rental shop at Grouse Mountain Ski Resort, doing fittings and taking bookings. Ali then spent the next year working and travelling around Canada and the United States.

“I soon realised that the travel bug was well and truly alive in me and just how much I loved working face-to-face with the many different cultures I met each day,” says Ali.

She then went on to live in Melbourne, where she worked in customer service for two years, before moving to the Netherlands. She was welcomed as a Meeting Point Manager for Sandemans New Europe Tours in Amsterdam, which operates walking and bicycle tours throughout the city and the rest of Europe. She loved being able to live in and travel around, Europe taking in its beautiful culture and history. After the Netherlands, she moved to Berlin before returning home to New Zealand to pursue another of passion – education!

Ali started working at ITC in the Schools/Marketing department delivering short courses to high schools in Auckland and various locations around the country. Absolutely loving teaching, she then moved into a full-time tutor role on-campus at the City Road campus.

Along with her partner Ryan, she has now moved to beautiful Raglan in the Waikato where she has begun working as a tutor for Study From Home.

Is ITC coming to a town near you?

ITC’s Tourism Education Team is hitting the road in 2016! Led by Mel Fey (bottom left), the team is bringing tourism short courses to ten regions around New Zealand.

The International Travel College (ITC) may be headquartered in Auckland, but we do our best to make tourism education available to students throughout New Zealand. Thanks to our Study From Home option, you can enrol on an ITC airline, travel or tourism course from anywhere in the country.

To spread the word about our exciting courses, ITC’s Tourism Education Team is hitting the road in 2016. This year they are visiting the following ten destinations throughout New Zealand:

• Paihia
• Whangarei
• Tauranga
• Rotorua
• Taranaki
• Wairarapa
• Wellington
• Nelson
• Christchurch
• Queenstown

 
The purpose of this New Zealand-wide tour is to offer secondary school students the chance to experience a taste of the tourism industry before they graduate.

If you are currently at high school, are interested in travel and tourism, then this is your opportunity to learn all about this exciting industry and gain some credits at the same time!

The Tourism Education Team will be delivering a range of short courses for NCEA Level 2 and 3 covering topics such as Flight Attending, Adventure Tourism and Tour Guiding. Courses range from 1 to 5 days in length.

ITC Tourism Education Team Leader Mel Fey said she’s looking forward to meeting students from all over the country.

“Last year’s short courses were so popular we decided to visit even more regions in 2016. Students will have the opportunity to learn first-hand about the tourism industry and gain experience like no other,” Mel said.

“I can’t wait to inspire, motivate and educate students – it’s amazing how much they walk away with after one short course.”

I want to attend an ITC short course – how do I enrol?

If you are keen to attend an ITC short course, you need to talk to your tourism teacher at school or ask your careers advisor for more information. They will let you know if you are eligible to take part.

When are you coming to my town?

Below is an outline of the Tourism Education Team’s schedule. This could be subject to change, so please email Mel to confirm your booking.

Paihia
May 10-11: Flight Attending Short Course
May 12-13: Tourism Short Course
June 14-15: Adventure Short Course
August 2-3: Tourism Short Course
August 4-5: Adventure Short Course
September 6-7: Tour Guiding Short Course

Whangarei
April 5-6: Flight Attending Short Course
June 16-17: Flight Attending Short Course
September 8-14: Tourism Short Course

Tauranga
August 10-11: Flight Attending Short Course

Rotorua
July 27-28: Level 2 Tourism Taster Short Course

Taranaki
June 21-22: Tour Guiding Short Course
June 23-24: Flight Attending Short Course

Wairarapa
May 3-4: Flight Attending Short Course

Wellington
May 5-6: Flight Attending Short Course
August 24-25: Tourism Short Course

Nelson
May 25-26: Flight Attending Short Course

Christchurch
June 28-29: Flight Attending Short Course

Queenstown
June 29-30: Tourism Short Course

If your region is not included in this list, then don’t worry – we may still be able to come to you. We can arrange a short course in any area by request. Simply get in touch with Mel to discuss.

The Tourism Education Team looks forward to meeting you on the road in 2016!

Leap Year Promo: Save 50% on all ITC Online Training short courses

Leap into airline, travel and tourism by taking an ITC Online Training short course! To celebrate 2016 being a leap year, all courses are 50% off until February 29.

Would you like to study airline, travel or tourism, but are currently unable to commit to a full-time course? ITC Online Training could be the solution you’re looking for. This interactive learning platform offers several online courses with prices starting from just $19.

To celebrate 2016 being a Leap Year, we’ve discounted ALL ITC Online Training short courses by 50 per cent. This could be the perfect time to leap into the tourism industry!

You can purchase as many courses as you like and enjoy this half-price discount. All you need to do is enter the promo code ‘promofeb2016’ at the checkout. This offer runs from February 1-29, so you have plenty of time to make the most of these affordable prices and learn a new skill.

Are you ready to take the leap?

About ITC Online Training

Unlike full-time courses which are taught by tutors and have regular assessments – and usually require at least a six month commitment – ITC Online Training courses can take as little as 20 hours to complete.

When you purchase an ITC Online Training course, you will have access to specialised information about airline, travel or tourism. You can then test your knowledge by taking interactive quizzes. The courses are intended to provide you with an introduction to the industry.

ITC Online Training offers courses in the following subjects:

Ground Handling and Airport Crew
Do you dream of working at an airport? This course will teach you about what it’s like to work at the check-in counter, an airline’s customer service desk or in customs/immigration. Buy now.

Cabin Crew
Would you love to work as a flight attendant? Discover everything you need to know about this exciting career choice. Buy now.

Careers in Tourism and Travel
If you’re thinking about a career in tourism and travel, but you’re still not sure this is the path for you, this course will help you decide. A great introduction to this industry, the course covers topics such as domestic and international tourism, tour guiding, working in a travel agency and more. Buy now.

Selling Skills
Sales is a large part of many travel and tourism jobs. Whether you’re selling holidays, accommodation or activities, it helps to have a few selling skills up your sleeve! This course will help you sell with confidence. Buy now.

Working on Cruise Ships
A job on a cruise ship is a wonderful way to see the world, meet new people and get some amazing experience for your CV. This cruise online training course will teach you what it’s like to work at sea. Buy now.

Winning with Customers
The tourism industry is all about helping people have an amazing holiday – so it goes without saying that you have to be great with customers. Fortunately, this is a skill that can be learned! This course will teach you how to wow your customers with amazing service. Buy now.

Tour Guiding
Working as a tour guide is definitely a lot of fun! You get to show people around and help them have a great time. Take this course and learn if you have what it takes to be an amazing guide. Buy now.

Highlights from 2015

From appearing on a Good Morning Advertorial to enrolling three people from the same family, 2015 was a great year for Study From Home.

At the end of every year it’s nice to look back at what has been accomplished over the past 12 months. For the ITC Study From Home department, 2015 has been a big one! Here are our top three stories from this year.

3. A family affair: ITC graduate inspires daughters to study tourism

We’ve been lucky enough not to have one, not two but THREE members of the Hicks family enrol in a Study From Home course.

Mum Robyn was so impressed with the qualification she received from ITC that she encouraged her daughters to pursue this exciting career choice.

It’s been brilliant having the family with us – we look forward to seeing what they decide to do next.

2. Motivated mum of 7 sets up home office in wardrobe

If there’s ever been a shining example of ‘when there’s a will, there’s a way’, it’s Michelle Laidlaw. This motivated mum of 7 decided to set up her home office in her wardrobe when she was running short on study space.

If this story doesn’t inspire you to achieve your goals in 2016, we’re not sure what will!

1. Study From Home appears on Good Morning

The ultimate highlight of 2015 was going into the Good Morning studios to film an advertorial. ITC Tourism Education Team Leader Mel Fey and her beautiful six-year-old daughter Aria were the stars of our advert – Aria did an exceptional job.

This marketing opportunity allowed us to share our services with a wider audience, and we’ve enrolled several new students as a result. Thanks Good Morning!

A family affair: ITC graduate inspires daughters to study tourism

Robyn Hicks and daughters Chelsea and Katharine studied tourism with ITC via distance learning.

Passion for travel and tourism runs strong in the Hicks family. When mum Robyn enrolled in a course at the International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC), little did she know she would soon inspire her daughters to do the same.

Fast forward a few years, and now Robyn’s two daughters, Chelsea and Katharine, are both well on their way to completing the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3 through ITC’s distance learning arm, Study From Home.

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TIA: ‘Tourism supports 1 in 8 jobs in NZ’

The tourism industry is one of New Zealand’s largest sectors, supporting many jobs throughout the country, including in small towns.

Wherever you live in New Zealand, tourism could be an excellent career choice. As highlighted in a recent press release by the Tourism Industry Association (TIA), the sector supports many jobs throughout the country.

“Tourism supports one in every eight jobs in New Zealand,” says TIA chief executive Chris Roberts.

Mr Roberts acknowledged the nationwide importance of the sector in a press release about the Productivity Commission’s upcoming Tertiary Education Review. This review will assess New Zealand’s tertiary education system and consider new strategies moving forward.

The TIA is hopeful this review will reveal ways to ensure tourism education in New Zealand is of a high standard. As tourism grows, tertiary providers will significantly help prepare students for a career in this exciting industry.

“Our rapidly growing tourism industry requires many more people with the right skills to deliver outstanding experiences to both international visitors and New Zealanders travelling in their own country,” says Mr Roberts.

The TIA intends to work with the Productivity Commission throughout the review process “to identify the best ways to deliver tertiary education and training to tourism and hospitality students that meets the future needs of employers”.

As it stands, approximately 50 tertiary institutions teach some tourism and hospitality courses. The International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC) is one of few providers specialising solely in airline, travel and tourism training.

If you live in regional New Zealand, you can gain a tourism qualification with ITC via distance learning. We currently offer four national qualifications; three at Level 3 and one at Level 4.

Tourism is one of few industries that has a strong presence in both large cities and small towns. There is a wide variety of tourist attractions throughout New Zealand, creating jobs in most regions – a topic we’ve been exploring in-depth in our Tourism Spotlight series.

Enrolling in a Study From Home course for 2016 could help you get your tourism career off to a flying start, no matter where in the country you live.

For more information about our 2016 courses, please get in touch today.

Get a taste for the tourism industry with an ITC online short course

ITC Online Training is an affordable way to learn more about the tourism industry without committing to a full-time course.

Choosing what to study is a big decision. How do you know which industry is right for you? What if you’re torn between multiple subjects? If only there was a way to help you make up your mind…

Introducing ITC Online Training: a range of short, interactive online courses that you can take from home, at your own leisure.

These courses are the perfect opportunity to get a taste for the tourism industry without committing to full-time study.

Even better, there are courses to suit all budgets. ITC Online offers FREE taster courses and several introductory lessons for as little as $19. The most expensive online course is less than $250 – an affordable alternative to a six-month qualification.

Here are some of the topics you can learn more about with ITC Online Training:

• Ground Crew
• Cabin Crew
• Careers in Tourism and Travel
• Selling Skills
• Working on Cruise Ships
• Winning with Customers
• Tour Guiding

 
ITC launched these courses as a way to make education about the airline, travel and tourism industry more widely available to people all around New Zealand and the world.

“You can sign up for a short course from anywhere – so long as you have access to the internet and a computer or tablet,” says ITC Marketing Director Claire Huxley.

“This means people are no longer limited by their location or circumstance – everyone has the opportunity to learn more about this exciting industry. With several free taster courses to choose from, as well as a range of options available for less than $250, this is an affordable way to advance your education.”

The full list of online courses is available on the ITC Online Training website. If you have any questions about our courses, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’d love to hear from you.

Highlights from Orientation Day

The Orientation Day includes fun group activities, including a short assessment – you’ll walk away from the day with your first credits

Did you know all of our courses include an Orientation Day in Auckland? Held at one of our fabulous campuses, this compulsory, full-day workshop is an excellent opportunity for you to get to know your tutors and fellow classmates.

The most recent Orientation Day was in August and held at the ITC City Campus. Our students travelled to Auckland from all around New Zealand to attend this valuable workshop. We promise it’s worth the journey – in fact, according to Study From Home Team Leader Carla Sutton, Orientation Day is often the key to ensuring every student gets off to a flying start.

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New Zealand’s tourism boom: it’s not just about Auckland!

Some of New Zealand’s most popular tourist activities are located outside the big cities, such as Kaitiaki White Water Rafting

When we say the New Zealand tourism industry is thriving, we really mean the New Zealand tourism industry is thriving – we’re not just referring to Auckland. Although our largest city may attract the lion’s share of media attention, tourism is also soaring in the regions. There are plenty of exciting career opportunities in NZ’s smaller towns, from the far north to the deep south.  

This is why we launched our Study From Home programme; so we could deliver excellent airline, travel and tourism training to all New Zealanders, not just Aucklanders. If you live outside of Auckland, and are thinking about your future career, maybe it’s a good idea to consider tourism. This people-focused industry is expected to grow steadily over the next decade and beyond, setting you up for amazing career opportunities.

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Motivated mum of 7 sets up home office in wardrobe

Now this is what we call Kiwi ingenuity! Michelle’s innovative home office is a shining example of ‘when there is a will, there is a way”.

Where do you go when you want some peace and quiet away from your children? Why, the wardrobe, of course!

When Michelle Laidlaw decided to study from home, she knew she would need a secluded place where she could concentrate on her work without distractions. So the motivated mother of seven got creative and converted her bedroom wardrobe into a cosy home office.

“With my course related costs I brought myself a new computer and measured up my wardrobe. I then drove to the Warehouse Stationery with my tape measure in order to find a desk that would fit into my wardrobe so I could close the doors when not in use,” Michelle explained.

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Travel Q&A with ITC Tutor Lynelle Panton

New York City is the next destination on Lynelle’s travel wishlist. Photo credit: Josh Liba // Flickr Creative Commons

Lynelle Panton is a Tutor on the ITC Study From Home team. She shares some of her favourite travel memories with us in today’s blog.

What sparked your interest in travel and tourism?

I did a lot of moving around when I was younger and always thought I am never going to move as an adult, but quickly realised that with all the moving I got to see some pretty amazing places and experience things I might never have had the chance to if I hadn’t.  I think when I was at high school lots of my friends were talking about studying and going off to do big OE’s and live overseas, and I knew I didn’t want to live anywhere else but NZ but still wanted to travel.  For me the most logical career was in the T and T industry.

What is your fondest travel memory?

When I was about 11 we had a 3 week holiday around the South Island.  I loved every minute of it.  We really do have a beautiful country with lots to see and do.  It makes you realise how lucky we are.

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Travel Q&A with Study From Home Manager Carla Sutton

Study From Home Manager Carla Sutton knew she wanted to work in travel as soon as she stepped into a travel agency with her parents at age 13

Carla Sutton is the Manager of ITC’s Study From Home programme. Originally from the Netherlands, she has travelled extensively and has a passion for learning about different cultures. Here she shares her fondest travel memories.

What sparked your interest in travel and tourism?

When I was 13 years old, I went with my parents to book our trip to the USA. That’s when I realised I wanted to be a travel agent. I picked all the relevant subjects at school (geography, languages, economics), finished high school, and enrolled at one of only two private travel & tourism institutes in the Netherlands. It was difficult to get in, there was lots of competition!

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Three reasons why you should consider a career in travel and tourism

A career in the travel and tourism industry is full of fun, adventure and variety

Are you thinking about changing careers? Here are three reasons why you might want to consider working in the exciting travel and tourism industry.

1. The New Zealand tourism industry is booming

Did you know 1 in 11 people in New Zealand work in tourism? This number is only expected to grow as more and more international tourists travel to our beautiful country.

The government is investing heavily in marketing New Zealand to oversears visitors and these efforts seem to be paying off. According to an article published last week in the International Business Times, “New Zealand is in the international limelight”.

The article continues: “In 2015, it [New Zealand] is basking in the glory of having surpassed all records in terms of huge tourist arrivals.”

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Travel Q&A with ITC Tutor Richard Euston

ITC Tutor Richard has been all around the world, but beautiful Rarotonga remains the favourite place he has visited. Photo Credit Robert Linsdell // Flickr Creative Commons

Richard Euston joined the International Travel College of New Zealand’s Study From Home team in January 2015. We asked him a few questions about his travel experiences so far.

What is your fondest travel memory?

There’s a lot to choose from but I would have to say our honeymoon. We stayed at the legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore and also spent time in Bali in an amazing villa with it’s own pool.

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How to create a dedicated study space at home

Does your home study space put you to sleep? Don’t worry, we’ve come up with some tips to create a study space that works for you. [Photo credit: CollegeDegrees 360, Flickr Creative Commons]

It’s far too tempting to juggle writing an essay with putting on a load of washing, watching the television or preparing a meal. Everywhere you look, you probably see chores waiting to be done!

The key to success is to set aside a dedicated study space. A space you can retreat to when you need some quiet time. This is especially important if you have a family or share a house with other people.

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Study From Home appears on Good Morning

From left to right: ITC Marketing Director Claire with Aria, Good Morning Advertorial Host Mel and Melissa

ITC Short Course Tutor Melissa Fey recently appeared on Good Morning to talk about the college’s exciting Study From Home programme.

Melissa appeared on camera alongside her six-year-old daughter Aria and answered questions about studying in the airline, travel and tourism industries.

In case you missed the show, here are some highlights.

So Melissa, tell us about the International Travel College. What qualifications do you provide?

ITC is an award-winning college that provides qualifications for people wanting to enter the airline, travel or tourism industries. We have a strong relationship with these industries and this helps us find great jobs for students after they finish studying.

So you actually help your students find work? What kind of jobs can they get after studying with the International Travel College?

Our graduates work as tour guides, travel agents, flight attendants, airport check-in agents, customs agents, bungy jump operators… the list goes on! Tourism is one of New Zealand’s largest industries and employs one in 10 people. We actually have employers asking us for applications for existing roles.

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ITC Launches Online

ITC now offers a range of online courses

On Thursday 7 August the International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC) officially launched its new online learning programmes.

ITC staff and industry members gathered at ITC’s city campus for the event. Distance Learning Programme Manager Carla Sutton introduced the online courses, thanking the staff involved in creating the courses, and the industry contacts who had provided valuable feedback during their development. Carla gave special mention to Karen Houston of Training & People Development Specialists, who had written the course material.

The courses – which cover cabin crew, ground crew, tour guide, and cruise staff training, customer service, sales skills, and careers in travel and tourism – are wide-ranging in their application.

As well as providing a cost- and time-effective way for those in the industry wanting to upskill and employers wanting to provide professional development for their staff, Carla also spoke about the positive impact they will provide for secondary school students.

“Many students don’t know what they want to do when they leave school; and our school contacts have expressed concern about how to keep students at school in their final high school years. These programmes will give them a taste of the exciting travel and tourism industry and we aim to engage their interest in undertaking further study.”

The accessibility of the courses, which are available on any PC, Mac, tablet or smart phone, is one of their key benefits. Carla spoke about students being able to do lessons on the bus on the way home from school or work, undertaking stop-and-think exercises in their lunch time or connecting with their peers on the forums in the evenings.

Wendy Iceton showing on an ipad how flexible the courses are.

Each course has a Bronze, Silver and Gold level, with Bronze providing basic course lessons and the Silver and Gold levels offering more personalised study and assessment. Gold students will have access to tutors and other students through online forums. Students who complete the Silver and Gold levels will also receive a Certificate of Completion.

A fourth Platinum option is available for customers who want to tailor the online training to their own business. This option provides flexibility in terms of branding, reporting, additional workshops and one-on-one sessions and will allow travel and tourism operators to provide highly relevant professional development to their staff.

It was clear from the evening’s presentation that a great deal of time, care and consideration has gone into developing these new programmes to meet the needs of the wide range of people interested in travel and tourism. And there is plenty more to come. Guests were asked for ideas on what other courses would be valuable for the industry and course writer Karen Houston promised she had plenty of new ideas as well.

Watch this space: http://itconlinetraining.com

ITC Ready to Launch ITC Online Training

ITC offers short courses via ITC Online training site

International Travel College is set to launch its new online short courses in August.

The online courses will cover training for cabin crew, ground crew, tour guiding, cruises, and careers in travel and tourism. Two online soft skills courses on winning with customers and sales skills have also been developed.

ITC’s Distance Learning Programme Manager Carla Sutton says the courses have been created in direct response to the needs of industry.

“We have strong connections across New Zealand with airline, travel and tourism operators. We asked them what they wanted from us and we were prepared to do what it took to provide it.”

The clear indication from industry was that ITC should offer courses that would allow all those involved in travel and tourism to benefit – from those just starting to explore their interest to those already working in the industry.

“Developing these courses for online delivery was the best way to do that,” says Carla. “It makes them accessible and affordable to anyone without the constraints of time or money to do onsite training.”

“Because people can study from any PC, Mac, tablet or smart phone it’s perfect for those entering the industry, people wanting to update their skills, or employers wanting to help their staff update their skills.”

The courses ranges from Bronze to Silver and Gold, with Bronze providing basic course lessons and the Silver and Gold levels offering more personalised study and assessment. Students who complete the Silver and Gold levels will also receive a Certificate of Completion.

The courses have been extensively trialled with the help of ITC’s staff and on-campus students.

“As with all of our training, the online courses have been designed with real-world practical applications in mind,” says Carla. “They have been written and designed by authors with a huge range of industry experience, real work skills and great teaching experience.”

Feedback so far has been excellent and ITC is looking forward to launching its new courses in August 2014. ww.itconlinetraining.com

ITC to offer Aviation Course via Distance Learning

Aviation, one of the most popular ITC courses, is now available via distance learning

The level 3 course will be titled the National Certificate in Aviation Core Skills and will prepare students for entry level jobs in the aviation and travel industries. Its particular focus is on students who want to work for an airline or airport.

ITC has been a premium supplier of full-time and part-time training programmes for the airline, travel and tourism industries since 1996, and has campuses in Botany and central Auckland. Since 2006 the college has also offered a number of its courses via distance learning.

“There are many people in New Zealand who are unable to come to on-campus classes,” says Carla Sutton, ITC’s Distance Learning Programme Manager. “The reasons vary from having young children to other study or work to living far away from a campus.”

Students of the new aviation course will be able to choose between a 25-week full-time course and a 49-week part-time course.

“It’s not always easy for people to fit study into a life that is already busy with other commitments,” says Carla. “So we provide specific options and support wherever we can to help our distance students succeed.”

And ITC’s students agree that it all makes a difference.

“I thought it was going to be difficult, as I am also studying at university and looking after my son, but with the help and support from fellow students and ITC, I DID IT!” says graduate Caroline.

And Sarah says: “I have had so many changes and challenges over the last 6 months, and having study on top of it all seemed to be too much at times, but all your kind words and listening ears have made what seemed impossible very possible and easy.”

As with other ITC courses, students are given advice and help to create a CV that puts their best foot forward and highlights their particular strengths. And distance learning support staff put the students through a practice interview to help prepare them for real-world interviews and boost their confidence.

ITC graduate Carla recently got a job at Menzies Aviation: “This is exactly what I want to do and I cannot believe it,” she says. “It is really happening for me! Thank you so much for your wonderful teaching and the time and effort that you have invested in me. You have no idea how much it really means to me.” “That’s what it’s all about for us,” says Carla Sutton. “Knowing that we have made a genuine difference in helping someone to change their life and achieve their dreams. We are really looking forward to being able to offer the aviation course to people who want to work in this exciting field.”

For more information, please email carla@itc.co.nz or wendy@itc.co.nz or check www.itc.co.nz.