Edexcel GCSE Leisure and Tourism Single Award
The Leisure & Tourism GCSE is a practical, work-related one year course which is ideal for students who have an interest in the leisure, travel & tourism industry.
It consists of 2 units, one examination unit and one coursework unit, based on fieldwork visits. This allows students to learn by completing assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations. They will use independent learning skills to research information from a variety of sources. Students will have the opportunity to explore case studies of travel and tourism organisations within the UK and Europe, customer service, and holiday destinations.
The course introduces learners to particular areas of employment and provides a good basis to progress to advanced work-related qualifications as well as moving onto further education courses in Leisure, Travel & Tourism.
What will I learn?
Units completed during the course are:
Unit 1: The Leisure and Tourism industry
In this unit you will learn about the leisure & tourism industry. You will explore the different types of leisure & tourism organisations in the UK, gain an understanding of the various employment opportunities available, be introduced to the business operations side of the industry and examine the impact that tourism has on communities and environments.
Unit 4: Customers and Employment in Leisure & Tourism
In this unit you will learn about visitor attractions, customer service and employment in the leisure & tourism industry. You will research and gain an understanding of the various factors which influence how people choose to spend their leisure time. You will also look in detail at the employment opportunities, skills, qualities and preparation required to work in the leisure & tourism industry.
How will I be assessed?
The course is 60% coursework and 40% exam. Unit 1 is the examined unit and Unit 4 is the portfolio coursework unit, which will be completed through controlled assessment. You will be able to complete two units in a year. This means that all the assessment is based on work you’ve carried out recently. You will have the opportunity to re-sit external examinations and re-work your portfolio if necessary.
What are the entry requirements?
No prior knowledge is required.
What extra costs may be involved?
There will be visits connected to the course which will be used as case studies to enhance knowledge, skills and understanding of the units being studied. There is a possibility of financial assistance to support such visits.
Is there anything else I need to know?
The course will appeal if you:
- have a genuine interest in the leisure, travel & tourism industry. You will develop an understanding of various leisure and tourism organisations, factors influencing leisure time, working with customers, current issues and employment opportunities.
- want to learn about the leisure & tourism industry and how it contributes to society and the economy.
- enjoy studying a subject that will broaden your experiences.
- want the opportunity to apply the theory of the course to practical work outside the classroom.
- enjoy discovering about yourself in ‘hands-on’ situations.
- want to find out more about the subject through research, team work and independent study.
- wish to study a course which is active, fun and enjoyable.
Future opportunities
After completing this GCSE Leisure & Tourism course you can progress into many different areas of study:
- Study BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Travel & Tourism at Sixth Form or college.
- Progress into the industry to work in a travel agent; as a tour operator; with airlines; as a holiday representative; in tourist information centres; as a travel consultant; as a tourism officer; in hotel management; in human resources; in sales and marketing; in customer service or in event management.
