International Tourism Management students raise over £2000 for charity

The project began with BA (Hons) International Tourism Management students listening to the Family Holiday Charity about their cause - an organisation that helps low-income families get time away together. They then worked in teams to make a difference as part of the course's new compassionate curriculum. Initially given a target to raise £750, the students exceeded this expectation by raising £2,452.

It wasn't just a standard classroom exercise, but rather a real-world challenge that required teamwork, collaboration, and creativity. Students formed six small teams with friendly competition; some baked, some ran quizzes, and others sold hot chocolate to spectators watching a BUCS rugby match in the freezing cold. A few even ran 10km races. At the same time, they took over on LinkedIn to drive engagement and donations.

The feedback from the event highlights why the innovative approach of the BA (Hons) International Tourism Management course is a truly effective way for students to learn. Traditional lectures are a thing of the past as we encourage our students to network, create value for others, and practice key skills that set them up to work effectively in a dynamic and exciting industry. It also emphasises their hard work during the action week.

The impact of this experience on the students was clear. One said: "On Monday, I didn't think we could raise even £100, but by the end of the week I've talked to so many different people. It's been a fun way to improve my communication skills."

Mags Rivett, Director of Income & Engagement for the Family Holiday Charity, was blown away by the professionalism of the students. "Your students and their huge achievement in raising so much money are a testament to your energetic and engaging way of supporting them. It's been inspiring to watch them take ownership and deliver such brilliant value for families facing some of life's toughest challenges. Families for whom a holiday is completely out of reach or off their radar."

Dr. Lisa Gorton, Course Director, said: "This is a great example of when creative course design, collaboration with partners, and teaching with purpose comes together for the benefit of all. The students have excelled in their tasks and impressed me with their levels of engagement."

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Phil Cardew, proudly weighed in, calling it an "excellent, aligned, pedagogical development."