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5 reasons why you should choose a career in tourism and travel

Posted on 06/03/2024 by

These students are already investing in their future travel and tourism careers on our Academy.

Amongst the team at ITC, we have more than 250 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry. And all we can say is: we love it, and we think you will too!

There are many, many reasons why we think you should choose a career in travel and tourism, but here are just five of the best.

1. Tourism is one of New Zealand’s biggest employers

If you’re ever unsure about your job security, keep in mind that tourism is one of the biggest employers in the country.

Recent figures show that tourism either directly or indirectly supported 317,514 jobs in early 2023. That’s a little over 11% of the entire job market in Aotearoa!

Having an industry-recognised qualification such as those offered by ITC and Study From Home is a huge selling point for anyone looking to work in this industry, and there’s no shortage of jobs out there.

2. Exciting workplaces

Have you ever visited a tourist attraction or taken a tour and thought the people working there have the best jobs ever?

Whether it’s a bungee operator, a tour guide, or a flight attendant, there are so many incredible jobs available in travel and tourism.

Just take a look at some of our student success stories to see what kind of jobs our recent graduates have been doing!

3. A fast growing industry

Tourism is growing incredibly quickly, picking up steam again after the slow down over the pandemic. In fact, it’s one of the fastest growing industries on the planet, along with financial services and information & communication.

For those entering the workforce right now, that means your career could grow right along with the industry itself.

4. See the world

 Kiwis are known for their love of travel, with many of us heading away on OEs and exchanges in order to see more of the world.

Working in travel and tourism can be a fantastic way to explore more of the world. Here are just five of our recent graduates who are all overseas right now on incredible international exchanges following their studies.

Who knows where they might go next – and you could follow them!

5. Because you can get started right now!

Can’t wait to get started on an exciting career? ITC is enrolling right now, and you can either join a class that has just recently started (it’s not too late!), or begin next week on March 11 for the next New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Tourism and Travel Level 3 (limited spots available).

Alternatively, you can sign up and get started any time you like with our Study From Home option, which lets you study from the comfort of your own home anywhere in New Zealand!

Get in touch with our friendly team today to find out how you can get started in this exciting industry.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Meet our first recipient of the Manaaki New Zealand Short Term Training Scholarship

Posted on 25/10/2023 by

Alison Ramo Oiofa is excited for the opportunities now open to her thanks to Study From Home and our travel and tourism qualifications.

Alison Ramo Oiofa is the very first Study From Home student who graduated the Level 3 Tourism Certificate after receiving Manaaki New Zealand Short Term Training Scholarship.

Alison, who lives and works in the Solomon Islands, found out about ITC and Study From Home through the New Zealand High Commission Office. Not only did she go on to gain the scholarship, but now she has completed her qualification, and is using it to take her next big step in her career!

We asked Alison a few questions about her time with us, what she’s doing now, and if she has any suggestions for future students.  

How did your adventure begin with us at ITC? How did you first hear or experience our college?

I heard from the New Zealand High Commission Office in the Solomon Islands.

What do you think ITC does different from other education providers?

They are different from other providers because:

  • The offered me free short courses
  • They reached out when we needed help
  • They make sure we are doing well with our study
  • They are even concerned about our welfare

If I could rate this education provider, I would rate it to 100%.

What was the best part of your Study From Home journey?

My best part of my journey is when I am on Zoom with my tutor and when we do the teamwork session.

What is your next/current adventure after ITC?

To work as a travel coordinator in our office, and planning that one day I will go and visit all the sights in New Zealand that I learned about during my studies.

Following on from the previous question about your next or current adventure, what will a typical day look like for you on this adventure?

I am currently working as a front desk officer at the Solomon Football Federation, and the good news is that since I have a good knowledge of travel from my online studies, I have submitted a letter of expression and informed them about the tourism Level 3 course I completed. I’m advising them that as soon as I receive my certificate, I will submit for a National Team Travel Coordinator role in our office that was advertised last month.

The National Travel Coordinator job description is basically to deal with flight bookings, applying for visas, making accommodation bookings when the team travels both domestically and internationally. That’s why I am so proud and look forward for this position with the support of this qualification.

How did ITC prepare or support you for this?

ITC supported me with the knowledge of understanding different types of travels, types of visas, calculating days and times in and around the world. Knowing different types of people and their characters, their dislikes and likes, and how to deal with them in a rightful way, and much more.

What are you excited most about your journey from here?

I am so excited because with this certificate it promotes me from where I am today.

What advice do you have for others wanting to study tourism?

Tourism creates thousands of jobs. It boosts the economy and develops the infrastructures of a country.

Therefore, I kindly advise you to avoid overanalysing things, it’s common to experience some shyness or anxiety before entering a new school. Nobody is flawless the first time they do something. Pose a lot of questions if you are uncertain about something, and invest a lot of time in your CV.

Study From Home like Alison

Study From Home offers an excellent opportunity to earn a qualification in travel and tourism, and learn all about the industry, how it all works, and the kinds of jobs you could do.

While Alison received a scholarship, don’t forget that you might be eligible for the Fees Free programme, which could cover some (or all) of your course costs.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team and learn more about how you could get qualified from the comfort of your own home, whenever it suits you!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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From Study From Home to Weta Workshop to AJ Hackett: Meet the graduate making waves!

Posted on 06/09/2023 by

Annie Shields is a Study From Home graduate working for Weta Workshop and AJ Hackett.

ITC and Study From Home are special education providers for many reasons. One of those reasons is because we care about our students so much that we stay in touch long after they graduate. We love hearing how their careers are going, and we’re always on hand to help them with their job hunts thanks to our Employment Consultants.

Sometimes, we hear from graduates who blow us away with their success. One such graduate is Annie Shields. Annie is working two part-time jobs right now, one for Weta Workshop as a tour guide, and one for AJ Hackett at the Bridge Bungy.

Of course, we had to get in touch and learn more about her amazing journey so far.

Why did you choose ITC Study From Home?

I chose ITC study from home because I was moving from Hamilton to Auckland as well as working part-time so I needed a lot of flexibility at that time. I went to Go With Tourism and learned about the opportunities people got through ITC and decided it was the perfect choice for me.

Where do you currently work and what does your job entail?

I currently work casually at Weta Workshop Unleashed in Auckland as a tour guide and I work part-time at AJ Hackett Bridge Bungy Jump.

What are the highlights about your role?

I love speaking to people from other places and getting to talk about our amazing country and contribute to their trip.

Has any of the study content been valuable in your current role?

Study content I learned at ITC has really helped me, it built my knowledge as well as my confidence. Destination New Zealand and communications was especially helpful.

What does your current study/work routine look like?

I work at AJ Hackett three days a week and two other days at Weta but I would be there every day if I could.

Do you have any words of wisdom for others out there wondering if they should Study From Home?

Study from home is an excellent choice if you need flexibility, I was pleasantly surprised by how much support was offered the whole time.

What are your career aspirations or what are you excited about using these qualifications for in future?

I have applied for the Disney internship program so hopefully excited for that. My dream has always been to be a tour guide and I feel very on track for that thanks to ITC Study From Home.

Looking to make waves in travel and tourism like Annie?

Annie is just one great example of a student doing amazing things in the travel and tourism industry – and she’s just getting started.

If you’re interested in earning a valuable qualification in travel and tourism, our ITC courses could be the perfect option. You can study on campus with ITC, or with Study From Home like Annie did.

Contact us today to learn about our courses, and how they can kick start your career! 

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Meet the super-mum who earned her qualification with kids at home and a full-time job!

Posted on 30/08/2023 by

Super-mum Hitty studied from home to earn her qualification from ITC.

At Study From Home and ITC, we often meet incredible, hard-working people. Recent graduate Hitty Sarpal is a great example.

Hitty chose Study From Home for the flexibility, as not only did she have young kids at home, she also worked a full-time job! Her hard work and dedication is proof that with motivation and will-power, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

We asked Hitty a few questions about her studies, how she managed it all, and what she wants to do next.

Did you enjoy learning with Study From Home?

I am very glad and Privileged that I pursued my Travel and Tourism study in International Travel College of New Zealand (Study From Home). I like that I am studying something that I am passionate about. I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying a Travel and Tourism course at ITC college.

How did you juggle study with being a mum?

The best thing about studying from home is that I could study at absolutely any time I wanted. I would put an hour or two aside, during kids nap time or sometimes my in-laws would look after them for an hour or two while I am studying, which allows for 100 percent ‘me’ time. But I always made sure to help in laws in the household chores to balance out the things and not to put all pressure on them.

My husband after work will take my kids out for a walk or park to support my learning. Learning online allowed me to keep up my professional skills, as I was super scared that I would lose touch base with them when I became a Mum.

What was your favourite thing about Study From Home?

I really think that the flexibility of studying from home is what allowed me to complete my Certificate! It’s hard to put aside time when there’s always so much to do, but it’s really worth it because it allows you to be ‘you’. Plus: You can totally study in your PJs on your sofa and no one will judge you!

Most importantly, it doesn’t sacrifice missing those moments that you want to be there for: your kids and husband (especially for the days he worked from home). To support my husband, I picked up a full-time job in the Ministry of Social Development in between my study and after that it was challenging to juggle between my job, kids, and study initially, but I managed to utilise my time management skills and made sure I gave sufficient time to my studies.

Was there anything you were nervous about when you started studying?

If I look back at the time when I started this journey with ITC, I was nervous and was not sure if I would be able to complete this course but I had great support from the tutors and they were always there to guide me, which made this journey so much easier.

My family has recently migrated to Australia, and I am looking for a job. I feel confident in my ability to find employment with one of the reputable companies and pursue my goal of becoming a ticketing agent.

I hope my story will motivate all the other moms and inspire them to pursue their goals in life. I am proud of what I have achieved over the last and this year. I really want to thank the manager and tutors at ITC for the support and guidance.

Looking to make a change?

Are you looking to make a change in your life, but unsure how when you’ve already got a full plate with work, family, or other commitments?

Study From Home allows you to earn a valuable qualification in travel and tourism, all without leaving the comfort of your home. You can start at any time and study at your own pace, all with the support of our wonderful tutors.

Sign up for a FREE trial to see what it would be like to study online, or get in touch with any questions today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Our top advice for parents and caregivers of remote learners

Posted on 12/04/2023 by

Do you have a remote learner at home? Here’s how you can support them.

Is someone in your family earning a qualification with Study From Home? Or even studying any course or completing schoolwork from home?

Even though the student will be doing the work, there’s a lot of responsibility in being their parent or caregiver, too. It’s up to you to support them and ensure they have the space to complete their studies.

Here are our top tips for anyone looking after or living with a remote learner.

Create a space for their studies

If you have ever worked from home, or simply tried to manage paperwork from the dining table, you’ll know the importance of having a quiet, tidy space to concentrate.

It’s no different for remote learners. Create a space in the home where they can focus in peace and quiet.

For example, if they share a room with a sibling, perhaps you can set them up in your bedroom so they can study in a private area.

Or, if there isn’t anywhere private for them in the home, ensure other family members respect the student’s study time with quiet activities in the background.

Don’t distract them

Many people who study or work from home have to contend with distractions. It’s one thing to ignore a TV making noise in the background, but it’s impossible to ignore a family member asking questions, making demands, or asking if they want to go out and do something.

It can also be easy to see someone sitting on their laptop and assume they aren’t busy, but it’s important to remember that they are likely working or studying.

Therefore, act as if their space is actually an office space and they are busy at work. Only disturb them with emergencies, and save any news, questions, or tasks until later.

Help them in other areas

You might not be able to help them work their way through activities or remember new information, but you can help them in other areas of their life.

For example, making a healthy, nutritious dinner might ensure they don’t resort to fast food if they’re too busy studying to cook something. Doing their laundry with your own can give them more time to focus on their learning and not have to worry about chores.

By taking on some of their tasks, you can help to free up their time and mental load so they can better focus on their learning.

Be interested  

Showing your interest in their studies can be a great way to show your support. It will ensure they know you’re following their journey and rooting for them to succeed.

Not to mention, it can help them to remember the material if they talk about what they’re learning to someone else.

Supporting our remote learners

 At Study From Home, we don’t just leave it up to friends and family to support our learners – we also offer plenty of support through the Study From Home programme as well.

Our team of dedicated tutors are available by email and phone, and students can also make face-to-face appointments as well. This means that students can ask questions and chat any time they need to.

These support systems – both online and at home – can help ensure our students not only complete their qualifications, but enjoy their time with us, and go on to land exciting industry roles.

If you or someone you know is looking for a fantastic distance learning programme, take a look at the course options with Study From Home, or get in touch with any questions.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Read our reviews for the 2023 study year

Posted on 15/03/2023 by

Our ITC and Study From Home students seem to be pretty happy with their courses so far this year. See some of their reviews below!

Every year, ITC and Study From Home strive to offer the best travel and tourism education in New Zealand.

From the courses themselves to our team of experienced, passionate tutors, everything we do is designed to provide the best experience for students. That also includes a four-day study week for ITC students so they can balance their education with their lifestyles, and an Employment Consultant who works to connect students and graduates with industry roles.

Naturally, we always love to hear how we’re doing. Reviews let us know what we’re doing well, and where we can improve for next year. We recently gathered together our reviews for the 2023 tertiary year so far, and we’re excited to share them with you!

ITC and Study From Home 2023 reviews

“I have enjoyed studying at ITC so much already. The tutors and staff are all so welcoming, and the class environment is really nice too. ITC has already been really enjoyable, I am looking forward to the rest of my study here at ITC :)” – Charlotte Greenwood (Auckland City Campus)

“I’ve had a very good experience at ITC so far. I have felt so welcomed and I cannot wait for the rest of the year at ITC :)” – Jessica Downey (Auckland City Campus)

“Absolutely love it here. Great tutors. Friendly staff. Brilliant course. Overall a great environment for learning!” – Talya Upson (Auckland City Campus)

“Wonderful experience from the class back in 2017 to the opportunity to work at Disney…and more so grateful to them more recently for helping me get a role at Menzies Aviation a few months ago as a check in agent. All the staff I dealt with were excellent. Big thanks to Mike, Mel, Ceri and Sarndra!!! You are gems!” – Vanessa Arcus (Whangarei Campus)

“A great campus to study at, you’re always meeting amazing people and having great experiences. Staff and students are always supportive, fun and friendly” – Jordan Harrison (Auckland City Campus)

“I have just completed Certificate 4 in Travel and I loved every moment of it. My tutor Toni was amazing, she was so helpful and supportive. I would recommend studying at ITC to everyone!” – Deborah Pritchard (Study From Home)

“Made a lot of new friends. Best travel college ever. I can’t describe how much I appreciate each and every person at ITC. The staff is lovely and very helpful. This travel college is family friendly environment. I’m happy that I chose ITC to start my career with.” – Liliola Tuipulotu (Botany Campus)

“ITC IS A wonderful and GREAT PLACE TO STUDY BECAUSE THE TUTORS ARE very friendly and they helped us students when we struggled with any of the topics. ITC IS THE BEST THEY ALSO HELPED TO GIVE STUDENTS THEIR DREAM JOB.” – Mateaki Fonokalafi (Botany Campus)

“It has a great learning environment, all the staff are really nice and friendly” – Vianca Williams (Auckland City Campus)

“An amazing place to study. Everyone was so lovely and helpful and made lifelong friendships. Everyone was so encouraging and helped me achieve my dream job of cabin crew!” – Jenna Goodfellow (Auckland City Campus)

“Awesome educational provider! Excellent way to study at home at your own pace!” – Sonali Bj (Study From Home)

As well as the lovely notes from students, we’ve also had a number of five star reviews. We’re so pleased to see so many of our students loving the courses so far, and we can’t wait to keep impressing them throughout the programmes.

If you’d like to study online with Study From Home, we’d love to work hard to impress you, too. Don’t hesitate to get in touch today to find out more about our courses and where they could take you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Did you know you can start with Study From Home right now?

Posted on 10/01/2023 by

Ready to earn a qualification in 2023? You can enrol and get started with us today!

Study From Home is the online version of the International Travel College (ITC) of New Zealand.

ITC’s courses are currently getting started for the New Year, with classes beginning over the next month. But did you know, that thanks to Study From Home’s online learning programme, you can get started any time you like – even today.

If you enrol now, you could be doing the first steps in your coursework this week, and working your way towards a qualification that gives you a foot in the door in the travel and tourism industry here in New Zealand and around the world.

What you can start studying today

  • The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism (level 3): This qualification provides an excellent foundation in tourism. You’ll learn about travel requirements and documentation, customer service, communication, and more. This is a great option if you know you want to work in travel and tourism, but aren’t sure which job just yet.
  • The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Aviation (level 3): This qualification is the alternative level 3 option. It also provides a fantastic basic level of knowledge for a variety of tourism jobs, but has a specific focus on the aviation industry. This is a great choice for anyone looking to become a flight attendant or work in an airport.
  • The New Zealand Certificate in Travel (level 4): This programme is a progression on our level 3 courses, and adds new skills and knowledge including online fare and ticketing systems, financial operations, teamwork, and more. You don’t need to have completed a level 3 course with use to enrol in this course, but you do need to have either achieved NCEA level 3 and/or have relevant work experience.
  • The New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel (level 5): This high level course provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to prepare for high level roles in management. Skills offered include marketing, strategic planning, finance, human resources, and more. This is a fast-paced and challenging course, and to study it, you either need to have achieved NCEA level 4 or have appropriate work experience.

What’s it like to study from home?

Study From Home has been designed to support students as they work through the programmes, and to ensure that learning is as interactive and interesting as it is informative.

Therefore, you won’t spend the whole time reading pages and pages of information then doing exams. Instead, our programme material includes video lessons, short quizzes, online forums, research activities, real-world cases studies, and the support of dedicated tutors should you ever need advice or encouragement.

You can study in your own time, so you can easily fit a course around part-time work, or even full-time work if you’re extra dedicated.

If you’re unsure about what it would be like to study online, you can also sign up for a free trial where you get to see what the coursework looks like.

Enrol now

Ready to get started? You can enrol right now by filling out our enrolment form, and we’ll get back to you to confirm your spot as soon as possible.

Or if you have any questions at all, call or email us to learn more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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What type of computer does someone need to study with Study From Home?

Posted on 29/11/2022 by

Not sure if you have everything you need to study from home? Here’s what you do (and don’t) need!

One of the most common questions we hear from potential Study From Home students is about what they’ll need to actually complete the coursework at home.

While you don’t need much at all to complete your online studies, there are a few things that are absolutely essential for our students.

What you need to complete a Study From Home qualification

Any laptop or desktop computer are both great options for students looking to complete a Study From Home qualification.

However, even a simple tablet with a keyboard works just as well. The tablet (such as an iPad) can access the ITC online system just as well as a desktop computer or laptop, but a keyboard is also necessary. You will need the keyboard to type in responses for all of the written assessments, and for any emails and messages with your tutor.

Also, whether you use a tablet or a laptop, it needs to be reliable. Models that only switch on sometimes or that have other major problems can get in the way of your studies. If they stop working, you won’t be able to keep working, so it’s important that whatever device you use is one you can rely on.

Another important requirement is that the device is available all the time. If you have to share it with siblings, kids, a partner, or anyone else, their time with it might get in the way of your study time, which could slow you down. Ideally, students will have access to a device of their own for the duration of their studies.

You will also need a good connection to the internet to access the coursework. Fibre is ideal because it’s so fast and reliable, but a good broadband connection will work just fine.

What DON’T you need to complete a Study From Home qualification

Here’s one of the biggest misconceptions about Study From Home: That you need a fancy laptop or computer.

You absolutely do not need the latest MacBook or high-spec laptop. All of our course materials are based on the web, so any simple, low cost, or reliable old monitor is perfectly fine for the job. For example, many of our students use Chromebooks to study at home.

You also don’t need anything specific in terms of notebooks or pens and stationery, unless of course you prefer to take notes in writing rather than on a screen.

If you’re still unsure about what you need to study with Study From Home, you can give our free trial a try. This trial lets you take a look at what the course material actually looks like, so you can do a quick exercise with the device you have at home and see how it all works before you actually enrol.

Or, you can always get in touch with any questions! Our friendly team is always happy to help and answer any questions you have about Study From Home, the qualifications on offer, the roles you might be able to apply for in future, and anything in between.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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What exactly is Study From Home?

Posted on 10/11/2022 by

Not too sure what Study From Home is? Here’s how it all works!

You might know that Study From Home offers online learning options, where you can earn a valuable travel and tourism qualification from the comfort of your own home.

However, there can be big differences in extramural (non-classroom) learning, depending on the structure. Generally speaking, there are three main categories of extramural learning.

Here are the three types, and the one that Study From Home offers!

Synchronous online learning

Synchronous online learning simply refers to live classes that are offered via video, such as Zoom.

This kind of learning requires you to log on and watch the video at specific times every week. Plus, you will usually be given resources to support those video classes.

This is essentially the format that many students took for school during covid, so many young leaners already have experience with it. They will also know how difficult it can be to follow the videos and log in at the right time every day.

Study From Home does not offer synchronous online learning.

Self-directed unsupported learning

Self-directed unsupported learning programmes are where you sign up, then the education provider sends you a pile of resources. These are usually PDF textbooks that you’ll need to read for your studies.

With this kind of study, you won’t usually talk to other students or have much interaction or support from your tutors. You will simply read through the resources then do your assessments.

Study From Home does not offer unsupported learning.

Self-directed supported learning

Self-directed supported learning is where you sign up for the course, then get given a variety of resources. This includes written content to read, but also interactive videos to watch, visual content to look at, and audio content to listen to.

There are activities to help you learn that will get you to engage with the course tutors regularly. For full-time students, this usually means being in touch with tutors several times per week.

If you get stuck or have any questions, the tutors will always be on hand to offer assistance and tutorials.

You will complete all of your activities and go through the resources at a pace that suits you.

This is exactly what Study From Home is. We have worked hard to create a range of learning resources that will teach you the course material in a fun and engaging way in your own time, with a huge amount of support on hand from our tutors.

For a taster to see what it is really like, you can sign up for a free trial to try out our resources and get a feel for what your study time will include.

If you have any questions at all about how Study From Home works, get in touch with our friendly team today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Congratulations to the first of our Scholarship winners this year!

Posted on 07/09/2022 by

We’re excited to announce some of our first scholarship winners this year! Pictured here: Students from Kaitaia College with tutor Mel.

In June, we once again opened applications for our fantastic scholarship programme. This programme offers a number of full-time students attending ITC or Study From Home the chance to have up to $5,600 of their course fees completely covered by us.

This is our way of supporting both our hard-working students, and the industry we love that so desperately needs more qualified and passionate staff.

And so far, we’re over the moon to announce we have already awarded SEVEN scholarships to students. We had many excellent applications, but here are a few words from each of our winners so far about why they want to study with us and what their ultimate goals are. (more…)

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Want to be a flight attendant?

Posted on 24/08/2022 by

Thinking of becoming a flight attendant? ITC and Study From Home courses could help make your dream come true!

Being a flight attendant means travelling all the time, meeting new people, exploring new places, and being part of people’s incredible journeys and holidays. It’s no wonder so many people dream of becoming flight attendants here in New Zealand and around the world!

Many students who study with ITC and Study From Home go on to become cabin crew, so here’s a little more about how we prepare our students for these roles.

How studying with ITC can put you on the path to becoming a flight attendant

Earning a qualification in travel and tourism, such as our New Zealand Certificate in Travel and Tourism with a strand in Aviation or our New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Tourism & Travel will show your dedication to the industry, and gives you a solid foundation of knowledge in a range of topics you’ll need to know as a flight attendant.

This includes customer service, check-in procedures, international travel documentation, and much more.

Even though airlines don’t typically require qualifications in order to apply, it can give you a major edge over other applicants who have not studied travel and tourism.

Another major factor working in our graduates’ favours is the fact that we help our students to gain part time employment while they study with us. That means many of our students work in travel and tourism roles over the weekend (don’t forget, ITC is only four days per week, which allows our students time to hold down a part time job!).

Experience in a part time role that includes customer service is a huge benefit for anyone applying to become a flight attendant, as this experience is one of the biggest things any airline is looking for when employing new cabin crew.

Finally, studying with us means our Employment Consultant will work with you directly to help improve your CV, teach you tips and tricks for the interview process, and connect you with great potential roles in the industry. We are the only tertiary provider with a dedicated Employment Consultant for our students and graduates.

A shining referral from a major CEO

We offer our students the qualifications, experience, and support needed to work towards their dream careers, and we recently heard first-hand how effective that support really is.

In July, one of our newest students said the entire reason he signed up for the ITC course was because he met the CEO of a well-known airline who told him that ITC was the place to study to become a flight attendant.

It’s hard to find a better referral than that!

Of course, we work closely with many contacts in the industry, and they consistently recommend us to anyone looking to improve their career prospects in travel and tourism.

Try ITC through your high school

We have a fabulous opportunity for any year 12 or 13 student who would like to explore the wonderful world of a Cabin Crew member. This fun and engaging two-day short course is held in our Airport Training Centre and Aircraft Cabin on-site at our Central Auckland or South Auckland (Botany) Campus, and uses real on-board equipment.

This course offers 3 credits at level 3, and will help students walk away knowing what they need to work on to be eligible to apply to be a Flight Attendant. To find out more visit your careers department in school or email schools@itc.co.nz.

Or, you can opt for a level 3 course for a full qualification you can earn in just 20 weeks.

Find our more by booking an Info Session, call toll free 0800 868747, or email college@itc.co.nz.

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It’s too cold to go out – why not Study From Home?

Posted on 26/07/2022 by

The weather is making the outdoors very unappealing at the moment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend your time wisely indoors!

As wind and rain batter at the windows and make it miserable to spend any time outside, many Kiwis are staying warm and dry indoors as much as possible this winter.

And if you’re stuck for things to do while you’re at home, or would like to spend this time as productively as you can, why not look into distance learning?

With Study From Home, you can take this time to earn a valuable qualification designed for the travel and tourism industry.

The best part is that you can start anytime! Our enrolment process is easy and we have incredibly supportive tutors and staff to help you along your journey to improving your career.

Here’s a little more about our courses and why they could be the perfect wintry project.

Study From Home courses

Study From Home offers courses at levels 3, 4, and 5. Typically, our students will begin with a level 3 course, such as the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3, which is an excellent introduction to the industry and offers a great foundation for those looking to find work in travel or tourism.

You’ll learn about cross-cultural communication, customer service, travel requirements and documentation, geography, New Zealand’s tourism industry, and more. Keep in mind, a lot of this information applies to other industries as well, so a qualification can be a good first step in any career that involves dealing with people and communicating.

Over the past few years, Study From Home has also been working hard to improve these courses and how students can learn. You won’t just be reading loads of textbooks, but rather taking interactive video lessons, taking part in online forum discussions, doing quizzes, problem solving with activities, and much more.

We know everyone has different learning styles, which is why we work hard to ensure the courses are as interesting and informative as possible, with plenty of support from our dedicated tutors.

Not convinced if learning online would you? Do a free Study From Home trial to see what it’s really like!

Why study now?

Since you’re indoors all the time anyway and it’s too cold and miserable to do anything outside, winter is the perfect time to start studying.

However, it’s also the perfect time to earn a qualification in travel and tourism, as the industry is starting to really boom after the pandemic. As this coming summer will be the first time New Zealand is properly open to the world in years, the entire industry is gearing up for an extremely busy tourist season – and companies around the country are desperately seeking staff.

If you study a level three course full time (30 hours per week), you can maintain a part-time job or other responsibilities and still graduate this summer, just in time to find employment straight away.

Also, if you enrol right now, you can also apply for an ITC Scholarship. There are several Scholarships to be given away, so get your entry in for the chance to win one.

So if you’re looking for something to do this winter, or are looking for a career change, take a look at what our courses offer, and get in touch today with any questions at all.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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It’s not too late to earn a qualification this year and graduate this summer!

Posted on 20/07/2022 by

It’s not too late to start studying – if you start now, you can earn a qualification by Christmas!

It’s mid-winter, and after the past couple of crazy years, there are plenty of young people around New Zealand wondering what to do with themselves.

If that sounds like you, you should know that it’s not too late to enrol in a course at ITC or Study From Home and earn a qualification – all in time to graduate this summer!

Here’s a little more about the course, what you’ll learn, and why ITC or Study From Home could be a great option for you.

The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Tourism and Travel

The New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Tourism and Travel is a level 3 course, and if you’re looking at studying online, you can enrol and get started at any time. Note that the course starts on July 25 with our on-campus learning option at ITC.

This course is a fantastic introduction to the travel and tourism industry, and could be the perfect starting point for anyone interested in a career working in hotels, airports, travel agencies, tourist attractions, and more.

You’ll receive skills-based training that focuses on cross-cultural communication, travel requirements and documentation, customer service, destinational geography, and much more.

And while this course is focused on travel and tourism, it can also be an excellent option for study for other areas as well, as many of the skills you’ll learn – such as communication and customer service – can be a real asset for any industry.

The course is just 20 weeks long, so you’ll graduate in December, right in time for summer and for the incoming travel boom.

The course is open to anyone who has achieved NCEA level 2 or can demonstrate suitable literacy and numeracy skills. If you’re a first-time learner, it may also be covered by the Fees Free program.

Ready to enrol? Visit our enrol page now!

Why study with ITC or Study From Home

Right now, we’re seeing our graduates walk out the door with their qualifications, and get hired into incredible roles within just days. The travel and tourism industry is truly ramping up, and has countless job openings across the country, so there has rarely been a better time to be an ITC graduate.

We have two dedicated Employment Consultants who work with our graduates (even if you graduated years ago!) to help connect them with excellent positions in the industry. They are available to help with creating a CV, interview tips, and much more to ensure you get a foot in the door when you graduate.

Keep in mind, Study From Home is a fully online course, so you can study from anywhere in New Zealand from the comfort of your own home. You’ll be able to balance your time however it suits you, so you’ll be able to maintain a social life and a part-time job while you study.

Enrolling now – get involved!

We’re enrolling right now, and would love to have you on board with our small, family-like courses. You’ll be surrounded by people who are passionate about the industry, and who can help you make your way into an incredible job in travel and tourism.

Get in touch today if you have any questions at all.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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What the experts are saying is next for travel and tourism

Posted on 13/07/2022 by

What’s next in travel and tourism, according to experts.

We’ve spent months talking about why now is the time to study travel and tourism, and how the industry is on the cusp of a massive boom.

But why take it from us when there are experts around the world talking about what’s next for travel and tourism (hint: it’s booming!).

Here’s a little more about what to expect for the sector according to a recent World Economic Forum chat with leading experts Sandra Carvao, Chief of Market Intelligence and Competitiveness at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and Liz Ortiguera, CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association in Thailand (PATA).

Many people are focused on reconnecting

 When asked about the biggest travel trends right now, CEO Liz Ortiguera said that it was reconnecting. After two years of being separated from loves ones around the world, many people are taking trips to see friends and family again.

This feels especially true for Kiwis, who have quite literally been unable to travel to see loved ones overseas.

Travellers are looking for more sustainable travel options

Ever since the first lockdowns, sustainability has been a big talking point for the industry. How can we ensure we’re looking after the planet while we’re exploring it?

Sandra Carvao of the UNWTO states that this movement has been very welcome, saying: “Consumers, particularly the younger generation, are much more aware of the impact they have, not only on the environment but also socially and on the communities they live in.”

Community-based tourism is on the rise

“One of the positive impacts of the pandemic is that people are looking for local experiences and are spending more time with communities,” explains Sandra Carvao.

Liz Ortiguera backs this sentiment up by explaining that one of the key themes at a destination-marketing forum for the Pacific Asia Travel Association this month is community-based tourism.

The goal of the forum, she says, is to “put the community and authenticity-in-culture activities at the heart of the travel experience.”

This way, travellers get to enjoy a more authentic experience, the destinations are less crowded, and the community itself benefits.

The problem of labour shortages in travel and tourism

Both here in New Zealand and around the world, travel and tourism businesses are struggling to keep up with demand. With everyone suddenly travelling and exploring again, travel companies are desperately searching for qualified staff to help make those experiences happen.

Sandra Carvao put it bluntly, saying “labour shortages are a priority for the sector in countries around the world.”

Liz Ortigeura explained how the shortages in North America and Europe right now are having a real effect on the industry everywhere.

“If, for example, their air carriers are limited by staff and they have to cancel flights, which we’re very much seeing out of Europe, seating capacity then becomes a limiting factor in the recovery of Asia Pacific,” she said.

Be part of the boom

With labour shortages across travel and tourism right now, the time is right to earn a qualification and dive into almost any role of your choice. There are so many companies seeking qualified staff, that we’re seeing our graduates not just get employed straight out of college, but also get a range of roles to choose from!

If you’d like to kick off your career and be part of the recovery – all while studying from the comfort of your own home – explore our Study From Home distance learning options, and get in touch if you have any questions at all.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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7 travel and tourism industry insiders show their support for ITC scholarships

Posted on 06/07/2022 by

ITC has close connections with ZipTrek Ecotours – one of many industry brands that support our ITC Scholarships.

ITC and Study From Home scholarships offer learners the chance to have some or all of their certification fees covered by us.

There are multiple scholarships up for grabs, and all of them will help students to gain valuable qualifications that will help to get them fantastic roles in the travel and tourism industry.

And right now, the travel and tourism industry is absolutely desperate for qualified staff. We can see it in the number of open positions available, and simply by talking to our many industry contacts.

In fact, we recently asked some of our contacts about their opinions on our scholarships and what they mean for the industry. Here’s what some of them had to say.

Eve Lawrence, General Manager of Haka Tours & ANZ Nature Tours
“A campaign of this nature is greatly needed across tourism as our recruitment pool is becoming very shallow!!”

Sam Peate, General Manager of NZ Operations at Entrada Travel Group:
“Tourism is a dynamic and rewarding industry offering a vast array of amazing career pathways. At Entrada Travel Group we’re always on the lookout for talented and motivated people to join our crew, both in NZ and Australia. We’ve been working with ITC for a long time because we know how well-trained and prepared their students and graduates are: They are the training organisation that we turn to when there are openings available. We’re delighted to show our support for ITC’s scholarship initiative which will help the New Zealand tourism industry grow and thrive.”

Eliesa Fifita, Hotel Manager at Ibis Budget Auckland Central:
“ITC’s initiative of offering scholarships to encourage those to study and seek a career is crucial to the future and survival of our unique but fragile industry. We urgently need workers and ITC has consistently been able to provide year on year top and career driven students who are able to meet and exceed the needs of the industry. By offering this, many financial and preconceived barriers will be broken. This small hand up will open many opportunities to kick start career and rising superstars. I wholeheartedly support and wish great success in this initiative.”

Carol Mendes, Human Resources Manager at Cordis Auckland:
ITC Scholarships are a great first step in a career into the amazing world of Hospitality! The market is full of opportunities at the moment, enjoy momentum to take a leap forward!”

Gavin Oliver, Managing Director of EcoZip Adventures:
“The New Zealand tourism industry is set to enjoy a significant resurgence. We need the next generation of talented tourism professionals and entrepreneurs to be entering the industry now, so they can lead the sector in the future. Having a pool of talented individuals who are passionate about the tourism and travel sector to draw upon is essential for businesses like EcoZip. As we continue to grow, and as the sector recovers from the pandemic, the need for people with a sound understanding of the principles of the tourism industry has never been greater. We value what ITC does and see ITC as a natural partner in our growth and development strategies. Because ITC are so adept at equipping their students with the genuine skills and practical knowledge they’ll need when the entre the workforce, ITC students seem to already be ‘ahead of the game’ when they join us; significantly lightening our internal training and induction responsibilities.”

Graham Trubuhovich, National Operations Manager at AJ Hackett Bungy:
AJ Hackett Bungy has had a long relationship with ITC and over that time our crew and customers have benefited from the many ITC students we’ve had work with us. Their skills, enthusiasm and professionalism have added to our experience and to that of the wider tourism industry. We very much support ITC’s new scholarship initiative and look forward to working with many more of their graduate whanau in the future.

Sam Holdich, Operations Manager at Weta Workshop
“The tourism industry is facing a critical skills and workforce shortage on the back of the devastating effect the pandemic had on the industry. With the industry restarting there is a unique opportunity for qualified tourism graduates to make a lasting impact on the industry, and a chance to help the sector rebuild. ITC’s Scholarship is a great initiative that supports in addressing the skills shortage and ensuring tourism is ready for the future.”

It’s not too late to apply for the ITC Scholarship

We’re supporting students looking to enter the travel and tourism industry, and by doing so, we’re also supporting the industry we’re so passionate about, and the industry that is crying out for qualified workers.

We’ve had a number of scholarship applications so far, but there are several scholarships available, so be sure to get your application in by the end of the July to be in the running.

And don’t forget, the scholarships are open to both ITC and Study From Home students!

You can learn more about the scholarship and how to apply on our ITC Scholarships page here.

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ITC and Study From Home a proven pathway straight into the travel and tourism industry

Posted on 29/06/2022 by

Want to work in New Zealand’s vibrant travel and tourism industry? ITC and Study From Home can make it happen.

Right now, anyone with any kind of travel or tourism qualification in New Zealand is hot property. The industry is desperate for qualified staff, which is why we’re seeing our Study From Home and ITC graduates finish their studies with us and immediately land jobs.

In fact, right now it’s taking just one or two days for graduates to gain employment.

They haven’t even hung their qualifications on the wall by the time they’re accepting a job offer in the industry!

Feedback from recent graduates

When we asked recent graduates if they would recommend their ITC or Study From Home experience to friends and family, 100% of them said yes.

That includes all of the graduates who finished their studies so far this year in our Auckland City and Botany campuses, and all of those who studied online with Study From Home.

We also asked for their most outstanding experiences during their time with us:

  • “The bonding and close relationship each student has amongst each other. However the amount of support and encouragement from both tutors and students was the most outstanding experience for me! If it wasn’t for their inspiring words I wouldn’t be here about to complete the course and gain my qualification.”
  • “I’ve learnt so much about the travel industry, also it was a goal to meet new people from different cultures.”
  • “The support from Take but also ALL other tutors and staff. It is amazing how ITC is a big family and I loved the support system here.”
  • “Gaining more in-depth knowledge about the tourism industry and the impact it has worldwide.”
  • “They’ve become my family”
  • “How supportive the tutors are”
  • “The knowledge I gained, the flexibility and adaptability of the tutors, school systems and processes, and the amazing time and tutoring provided by the tutors.”

How our qualifications get you a foot in the door

Right now, there are global talent shortages like the world has rarely ever seen, and job placements in the travel industry recently hit their second-highest level ever.

As we expected following the pandemic, the tourism industry is booming here and around the world. New Zealand travel and tourism employers are seeking qualified staff to help them get ready for a busy winter tourist season, followed by a huge summer tourism season later this year.

And we’re proud to see so many of our students graduate and start their first job in tourism within just a day or two of receiving their certificates!

Our Study From Home and ITC courses focus on giving students the real-world skills and knowledge they need to get started in the industry straight away. Our students learn about travel requirements and documentation, customer service, cross-cultural communication, and much more, giving them a great foundation in travel and tourism skills no matter what kind of role they are looking for.

If you’re looking to get into travel and tourism, Study From Home can offer you the qualifications you need to go from graduation to employment in just days, all through distance learning online. Get in touch to learn more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Apply now for your chance to win an ITC Scholarship!

Posted on 15/06/2022 by

Study From Home is offering scholarships for a number of lucky students. Enter now to be in to win.

ITC and Study From Home have just opened up applications for some amazing scholarship opportunities!

With the New Zealand Tourism and Aviation sectors currently unable to find enough skilled workers, ITC is helping people with a passion for joining the Travel & Tourism industry gain first-class skills and knowledge.

ITC and Study From Home are giving away multiple scholarships for full-time students, which are worth up to $5,600 per student. Not only that, it’s also on top of the Fees Free program, so you could have the first part of your study covered by Fees Free, and the second part partially paid for by a scholarship!

Here’s a little more about what a Scholarship entails, who is eligible and how to apply.

What does the scholarship entail?

The ITC Scholarship will pay for up to $5,600 of your course fees if you win. It all depends on the courses you apply for, as the scholarship is for the value of 50% of one full course when you enrol in two or more courses at ITC.  Imagine saving that much money on studies? You can use those funds to start travelling straight away!

The Scholarship is applicable for full-time study only, but it can be with either ITC or Study From Home. And importantly, it is awarded upon successful completion of the final course.

For ITC, the Scholarship is a way to support young learners into the industry we care about so much. Travel and tourism has rarely been in such dire need of new talent, and we know that right now, our graduates are walking straight into positions in the industry thanks to the qualifications they earn with us.

Who is eligible to apply?

 If you enrol for full-time study with ITC or Study From Home right now, and are either a New Zealand citizen or have been a Permanent Resident for at least three years, you are probably eligible to apply for the Scholarship.

You must begin your first course before Monday 29 August 2022, and you must have applied for the scholarship before the end of July 2022.

However, if you were already enrolled prior to June 1 this year, you are unfortunately not eligible to apply at this time.

Please carefully read through our full terms and conditions to learn more about application eligibility, and other terms that come with being awarded this scholarship.

How do I apply for the Study From Home Scholarship?

It’s super easy and won’t take you long! To apply, simply fill out the ITC Scholarship application form here.

Be sure to fill out this form as soon as possible and if you need any help, our friendly team are here to help you! If you are successful in getting to the second stage, we’ll let you as soon as possible. The second stage involves an information session and a chat with the team to discuss your study options.

If you have any questions at all about the scholarship or ITC courses, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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How blended learning helps make the impossible possible

Posted on 01/06/2022 by

Blended learning involves a mixture of online and in-person learning, making it possible to finish a qualification in an emergency.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from the past couple of years, it’s that being flexible is an excellent asset. It means you can quickly adjust when life throws a curveball at you, and carry on with minimal disruption.

That’s just one reason why the blended learning of ITC and Study From Home works so well when there’s an emergency that stops you from being able to continue studying in person.

What is blended learning?

 Blended learning is when you can complete your qualification by enrolling for in-person classes with ITC, but move to our online study platform when there’s an unexpected event or emergency that stops you from studying in person.

For example, if you want to sign up to ITC and join us at one of our campuses in Auckland, South Auckland, or Whangarei, you can enrol for the campus nearest you and start studying.

However, if life has other plans, and you need to temporarily study remotely, or study remotely in order to finish your qualifications, our Study From Home platform can make this possible.

Note that blended learning is only available in case of emergencies, and not an option for those who enrol with Study From Home and but want to switch to on-campus learning.

The best of both worlds

The possibility of blended learning can give students greater confidence that they will be able to finish what they start.

This has proven to be true during lockdowns, when our students seamlessly switched from in-person learning on campus to online learning with little delay to their studies. While much of New Zealand ground to a halt, ITC and Study From Home students continued to earn valuable qualifications thanks to blended learning.

But this is also true for many students who have had their plans disrupted. We have seen students start studying in person and move to our online courses after becoming pregnant and needing to juggle the demands of appointments and health needs, such as the case of Veronica Maihia.

We’ve seen students switch to online learning after unexpectedly moving away from their local campus, and many other scenarios where Study From Home has made it possible for students to graduate even when their original plans were disrupted.

Would flexible learning benefit you?

If you know you want to study with ITC, keep in mind that if something happens that would stop you from studying in person, you could temporarily or permanently work with Study From Home to complete your qualification.

Talk to our team today about how it all works and your options for studying online or in person.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Catching up with Shania Wheatley: A Covid whirlwind with a happy ending

Posted on 25/05/2022 by

Graduate Shania has had a whirlwind few years, all with a fantastic happy ending!

ITC graduate Shania Wheatley has had an incredible journey.

We first interviewed her in 2017 when she landed a job on a cruise ship and lined another up to work at Disney. But so much changed just a couple of years later that we interviewed her again, and found her back in NZ working in an isolation facility.

Now in the wake of Covid, Shania has made another big move – and a big lifestyle change! Her journey is truly a whirlwind, but it has a happy ending.

Here it is in her own words.

On her time working at a Covid quarantine hotel

I was so excited about Chateau even though it was a quarantine hotel!! What a memory!

It was rough working there with all the rules then Omicron entering NZ and developing etc. I am yet to get Covid – a forever ending game of tag!

I left Chateau due to the pressure and isolation I felt from being face to face with Covid every day. At the start I felt super safe, but as variants became apparent and rules changed, my family and friends didn’t want to see me due to the risk. So I started to feel that pressure to make sure I didn’t bring it into the community.

On finding a new job

I then saw a travel agency was hiring for a casual call centre contract, booking vaccinations, answering questions for the general public and doing health assessments on those who call with Covid, and putting them through to clinicians for medical advice.

I saw that role advertised on Seek and I wasn’t going to apply, but did screenshot it on my phone so I had a copy of the advert and contact details. A week later the advert had disappeared from Seek but I thought I’d shoot my shot and send an email anyway. I did and I was offered a full-time hours casual contract that basically had no end date due to Covid not having an end date.

At the same time as applying for that role, the same travel agency was also hiring for a Domestic travel consultant – they wanted someone experienced but I applied anyway with no luck (this was in July 2021).

During my time with Healthline/ the Covid vaccination line, I was offered a promotion to supervisor. I made it known that I wanted to impress my managers as they were high up in the travel industry, and sometimes it’s who you know not what you know. So the more connections I was able to build the more chance I had at coming out the other side with a possible agency role.

Anyway, I got a promotion and became a supervisor in-charge of a group of six, where I did quality reviews of their calls, provided training and feedback and also was there to support them with some tricky calls.

On an unexpected surprise

Then out of the blue the travel agency manager – the one who I had emailed in July 2021 for a domestic travel consultant role – offered me an informal interview for potential opportunities she had coming up in the company. She had either remembered my name or seen my work though Healthline as she managed that too.

So I met with her and the direct manager for the groups and events department, as they had a position available for a Groups and Events Consultant. The next day I received an email saying I had got the job!

It was perfect timing as our contract with Healthline and the Ministry of Health was ending April 30th, and the start date for this new role was May 2nd.

On what she learned from the whole experience

Some things I learned from this experience have been:

  1. Of course depends on the situation, but always make it known known if you want to gain the attention of a certain company/person in the industry. You never know what connection your manager, tutors or friends have.
  2. It can be who you know, not what you know.
  3. Work hard, you never know who’s watching.
  4. Everything happens for a reason!!

On finding the silver lining to the Covid cloud

I know Covid has badly effected so many people. However Covid is probably the best thing that could have happened to me.

I was diagnosed with a heart condition I was born with, which had been effecting my everyday life. I was able to have the surgery to fix it without it effecting any work. I moved to Christchurch, lost 50kg, and had the opportunity to rebrand myself – I had connections in Auckland but building those here in the South Island has changed the game to get to where I am now.

For recent tourism graduates – YOUR TIME IS NOW! before Covid, companies wanted people with experience, but now they know that if they are going to get people it’s going to be beginners, and they will train them from the ground up so it’s the most amazing time to be in tourism!

I’ve always said tourism was the first to be effected but will also be the first to recover!

On getting a leg up in tourism with qualifications

As Shania points out, your connections in the travel and tourism industry can make a huge difference to your job prospects!

That’s why ITC takes pride in continuously building and using our industry contacts and partnerships to give an abundance of opportunities to our graduates. It’s hard to beat having industry recognised qualifications that can get you a foot in the door with countless industry employers around New Zealand and the world.

 Get in touch with our friendly team to learn more about our courses and where they can take you.

 Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Why now is the time to study travel and tourism

Posted on 11/05/2022 by

Now is the perfect time to study travel and tourism with Study From Home.

New Zealand has officially opened its borders to travellers from visa-waiver countries, signalling that we’re once again receiving tourists. And we’re not the only country to take this step back to normality – countless nations around the world have found ways to open up to tourists safely.

As a result, the travel and tourism sector is growing at an incredible pace, with operators around the world seeking to hire new talent.

As expected, there has rarely been such a good time to study travel and tourism, earn an internationally recognised qualification, and start on an exciting new career path.

Here are just some of the news stories coming out from around the world showing just how in-demand anyone with a tourism qualification is right now, and will be in the foreseeable future!

Global tourism to recover from pandemic by 2023, post 10-year growth spurt

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced that the tourism industry has been projected to return to pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Not only that, but it will also grow at an incredible rate, and create a whopping 126 million new jobs around the globe.

Speaking about the Asia-Pacific region specifically, the WTTC said the hospitality industry is likely to outstrip its earnings from 2019 in 2023, showing that even though tourism will continue to build this year, it will reach new heights again next year.

This is fantastic news for anyone looking to study in 2022, as by the time they graduate later this year, they will likely have their pick of jobs. This is especially true as it will be the first summer that New Zealand is open to tourists.

Tourism has potential to play a major role in global pandemic recovery

The International Labour Organization (ILO) recently highlighted policies that could help tourism to play a major role in helping the world economy to recover from the pandemic.

These policies were decided by a group of tourism specialists, including representatives from 86 governments, and covered a range of guidelines such as finding ways to make tourism more sustainable, and investing in the development of a skilled tourism workforce.

The report mentioned that before the pandemic, tourism was responsible for one in 10 jobs worldwide, which is why it can be such a big part of the world’s recovery now that tourism and travel are back on the cards.

Cook Islands tourism industry desperate for workers

From the start of May, the Cook Islands removed more barriers to entry for tourists and travellers, signalling that more people are welcome to visit and enjoy what this beautiful place has to offer.

However, the tourism industry there is already desperately seeking workers to help manage the influx of visitors.

Business Director Steve Anderson said there are currently approximately 700 vacancies for jobs in the Cook Islands, and another expert said there are businesses that are operating with just skeleton staff for now.

For those who have always wanted to work in tourism in a beautiful island location, the Cook Islands could be a great option in the very near future!

Earn your tourism qualification from anywhere – starting today

Just because you can’t physically attend a campus to study, doesn’t mean you can’t get a qualification. Study From Home offers distance learning options for anyone in New Zealand to gain a recognised qualification online, some of which you could finish within just 20 weeks.

For example, you could enrol in the New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 3, make a start today, and finish well before Christmas (if you study full time, which is 30 hours per week), all without ever setting foot on campus!

We truly believe now is the perfect time to start studying, and Study From Home can help you get a qualification in tourism that will give you a leg up in the industry.

Get in touch today to find out how you can enrol right now, and where a qualification might take you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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The New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel Level 5 – ENROL NOW!

Posted on 03/05/2022 by

Get started in travel and tourism by enrolling in the Level 5 diploma now.

The New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel is a one-year, level 5 course that sets students up with the basic skills and knowledge they need to kick start a management career in the industry.

During this fast-paced qualification, students will learn about marketing, strategic planning, research, human resource management, finance, information technology, and legislation. It’s a lot to cover, but it offers an excellent, industry-recognised qualification in a very short space of time.

And now is the time to enrol!

Benefits of the diploma for study

There are a number of benefits you can get by studying the level 5 diploma.

This diploma qualification can help you enrol in another bachelor programme, not limited to a tourism education programme.

ITC is caring and catering to meet individuals needs appropriately, thus students are more likely to become successful in academics, such as getting awards.

Benefits of the diploma for work

When it comes to work, the level 5 qualification will give you more options to get a job, including the one which requires the higher qualification.

And since the tourism industry lost many middle-management positions due to the pandemic, you may have a better chance of getting promoted to a management level, together with your qualification.

Students can develop various skill sets, and all are transferable to other areas of work. It means they will learn faster, communicate better, will be less likely to make mistakes, and will be more resilient in workplaces.

Through this diploma, students also learn more about the work and career options in tourism, and gain a better understanding about the tourism industry as a whole.

Benefits of the diploma for personal development

The diploma is challenging, and students will often make mistakes during the course – then learn from them. This encourages resilience and experience with fixing problems.

Through this course, students become more self-disciplined and will become better at self-management. They learn how to communicate better with their family, and gain more self-confidence as well.

Of course our amazing tutors make the journey fun and interesting, and students make life-long friends as they help each other during the course.

What tutor Takeyuki Morita has to say about the diploma

“In Level 5, we have several assessments for self-reflection, asking about what you want to achieve in the future, how you should make a plan, what makes you actually interested, in study and business-wise.”

Level 5 student Sinead McDonnell recently took a closer look at how accessible tourism and travel is in New Zealand, and interviewed a NZ paralympian for her project. You can read about it here!

“So, through the study in level 5, students will know more about what they will want to know – find out their inner-space and inner-goals.

Kathleen, an ex-student, is a good example. She had some challenges in level 4, then she became interested in tourism through level 5 study, and she found out that the accommodation business looked interesting! Then she started level 6 study in the SIT, and now she is taking a double-major; Bachelor of Hotel Management, and Bachelor of Commerce.

She said she is successful in both studies. She is working for two jobs at the same time in Invercargill, including the Pacific Island Advisory Trust in which she supports the education and welfare of the children with Pacific heritage.”

Enrol in level 5 now

You can enrol to study the New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel and get started right now, either with ITC at our Auckland City Campus, or via distance learning with our online option, Study From Home.

Get in touch to find out more, or to enrol today!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Read the inspiring speech shared for a recent ITC graduation by an industry leader

Posted on 13/04/2022 by

Haka Tours General Manager Eve Lawrence recently gave an excellent speech at an ITC graduation.

Eve Lawrence is the General Manager for Haka Tourism Group, where she runs Haka Tours, NZ Snow Tours, and ANZ Nature Tours. Naturally, she is an incredible role model for anyone aspiring to work in the tourism industry.

She recently shared the speech she wrote for our graduates.

With her permission, we are sharing some of the highlights of her speech, so you can enjoy her pearls of wisdom about tourism, travel, and making a career out of something you love!

Eve’s graduation speech for ITC

Firstly I would like to congratulate each and every one of you for successfully completing your NZQA level 4 and 5 diplomas in Tourism & Travel Management.

I know from personal experience just how tough these last 2 years have been, not only for myself, but for each and every team member, employee and business leader in the tourism ecosystem. Leaders today are leading in a world moving through crisis and disruption—where challenges have no known solutions, and where there are solutions, there are far too many pathways and very few clear ones.

Much like the grieving process, the covid process has come with stages.

Stage 1 – Disbelief

  • Disbelief that global travel could shut down
  • Disbelief that our revenue could go from 21 Million to ZERO overnight
  • Disbelief, that the whānau many businesses had built had to be dismantled to keep the business alive
  • Disbelief that we weren’t able to see family members or friends
  • And most of all, disbelief that we couldn’t be with sick or dying loved ones in their hours of need

Stage 2 – Denial

  • Denial that lockdown would last very long
  • Denial that we had to let go of some of our whanau permanently
  • And for some denial, particularly from New Zealand, that covid was even happening

Stage 3 – Acceptance & realisation

  • The realisation that covid was here to stay
  • The realisation that we weren’t going to get our whānau back quickly and that we were going to be operating, as a business on near to zero revenue for potentially months to come
  • And the realisation from team members and employees in the industry that they may lose their jobs in the coming weeks and months

Which spurs on and leads to…

Stage 4 – The hustle

For a business, this is perhaps the most important phase in any journey of resilience, and certainly the stage that separates those who lead from those who follow.

This is the stage that has ensured the survival of our business. Working together as a leadership team, we ensured the survival of Haka Tourism Group, in the same way many others have secured the survival of their businesses for the future.

Ryan, our founding director, sold 3 accommodation properties, leased another property to the govt as a Māori wahine refuge, and also found a new majority shareholder for our Touring Brands. I focused on our environmental and community partnerships and built a range of new active products with our Aussie partners Intrepid to try and target the domestic market just to keep our touring brands in the black.

These things combined have ensured the survival of all our Haka Tourism Group businesses.

Which leads me to…

Stage 5 – The rebuild

Now it may not seem so to you now, but I can assure you that you will be joining the tourism and travel industry at possibly one of the most exciting times in history. Never has there been a better time to consider a career in travel and put all the skills and knowledge you’ve developed during your education to good use.

There are a few things I would urge you to consider whilst embarking on your journey into our sector moving forward.

As an industry we are working harder than ever to become more regenerative, work more effectively with our communities and really engage our manuhiri in our Maori culture. Upskill yourselves on environmental initiatives, our Maori history and what tourism businesses are doing to contribute in these areas.

Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate. This is something industry leaders don’t do enough.

Collaboration divides the task, but multiplies the successes, and going forward, people who can think through problems and who are collaborative are more important than ever.

For decades the business landscape had rewarded leaders who delivered exceptional short-term performance within their role and parameters. And for decades, the traditional business adage was that economic and social value could not be maximised at the same time.

But this current climate has underscored one resounding truth: we can no longer operate in an either/or world. We are leaders of ecosystems, and leadership is no longer confined by boundaries.

Organisations will need agile Enterprise Leaders — executives who know how and when to perform and transform in today’s complex world, not just in their own business vertical, but horizontally, across the broader business and industry ecosystem, people who value creativity, transformation & those who are adaptive. You need the capability to not only THINK, but to execute.

I strongly encourage you to think like Enterprise Leaders and to do this you need to consider these key questions:

  • What kind of societal needs does your business intend to meet?
  • What impact does your business desire to generate?
  • Who will you partner and collaborate with?
  • What is your purpose? What holds our ecosystem / sector together?
  • How does the business position itself within the ecosystem?
  • How are values created and shared amongst the ecosystem?

Our industry is going to need young, fresh talent now more than ever. So break the boundaries, think differently and express your opinions, because you deserve to be heard.

As you move forward through your careers, If you remember one thing from this speech, remember this; Leadership is an action, not a position.

Become part of the industry

Now it may not seem so to you now, but I can assure you that you will be joining the tourism and travel industry at possibly one of the most exciting times in history.”

If Eve’s words make you feel like now is that time to join the industry, it’s because it is!

You can start studying any of our five incredible course options anytime with Study From Home. Check out our course options here.

Enrol now or get in touch to find out more!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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We’ve been saying this for months – Tourism needs you!

Posted on 17/02/2022 by

Tourism needs you now!

For months and months, ITC has known that the tourism industry will need recruits to meet demands.

With the tourism boom around the corner, we certainly have seen an increased need for employees. Our Employment Consultants have been working really hard to support past students and it’s paid off for our recent graduates!

We knew that as soon as the border restrictions started to loosen, every tourism employer in the country would be looking to hire new staff and get ready for the inevitable rush of visitors who have been looking forward to getting to New Zealand ever since we closed our borders.

It’s our little ‘I told you so’ moment, and we couldn’t be more excited that it has finally arrived.

Recent graduates spoilt for choice

Recent graduates from the past year or so have been absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to finding jobs in the industry.

In fact, there have been more jobs coming in than graduates coming out.

Our two Employment Consultants have been exceptionally busy helping ITC and Study From Home graduates find and apply for fantastic roles throughout New Zealand, and we’ve seen endless successes from our graduates.

Here are just a few of the roles that have been filled by graduates from the past year:

  • Bridge Guide at AJ Hackett
  • Travel Consultant for Air New Zealand in Auckland
  • Guide & Customer Service representative for the All Blacks Experience
  • Customer Service for Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown
  • Boat Host for Southern Discoveries
  • Team Lead for Rydges Resort
  • Cabin Crew for Air New Zealand (several roles)
  • Customer Service for Air New Zealand (several roles)

How our new Whanau Portal can help you & your family decide if ITC and Study From Home is right for you

If you’re unsure about studying at ITC and jump starting a career in travel and tourism (or if your family isn’t sold on the idea!), we’ve created a webpage to help you make an informed decision.

It’s called the ITC Whanau Portal, and it’s filled with information about us and the industry that you’ll need to know to make your decision.

We explain what makes tourism a safe career choice, how you can go about finding employment once you graduate, and how ITC has established ties with tourism businesses that helps secure positions for our graduates in the industry.

You’ll also find information on what makes ITC so special, and how you’ll be able to study but also balance that with life or even a part-time job.

So take a look through the Whanau Portal and get in touch if you have any questions at all about studying with ITC, working in tourism, or getting a job once you graduate.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Meet Michelle Newsome: ITC’s newest team member!

Posted on 09/02/2022 by

Michelle Newsome has recently joined the ITC Schools Team, bringing with her a wealth of travel knowledge and experience.

Michelle Newsome is ITC’s newest team member, joining the Schools Team as a Tourism Educator.

And it only takes a moment hearing about her background or her passion for the industry to see why she’s the perfect fit for the role.

From the historic sites of Europe to nomadic safaris in Queenstown, Michelle has seen (and worked) it all. So we sat down for a quick introduction.

What does your travel industry history look like?

I’ve been working in tourism in a variety of roles for the past 10 years. I started out as a trip leader for Topdeck in Europe where I led and guided coach tours of amazing young people around the continent.

I absolutely loved that job, it required a balance of high energy and enthusiasm, knowledge and organisation to keep everything running smoothly. I am a bit of a history nerd so being able to show off the beautiful historic sites of Europe was a dream job for me.

Back in Aotearoa New Zealand I have used those skills learnt overseas to show off my own stunning country.

I became a Driver-Guide for Wellington movie tours and later Nomad Safaris in Queenstown which gave me the opportunity to fully embrace my love of the Lord of the Rings films.

After a year at Flight Centre, which opened my eyes to the sales and reservations world behind the tours I had been running, I jumped at the chance to work for one of the premium tour companies operating here in Aotearoa, Australian Pacific Touring (APT).

I was still working out on the road for them as one of their senior guides when lockdown was announced in 2020. Since then I’ve kept busy working in operations and reservations for a coach transport company.

How will your experience help support students?

I hope that my industry experience can really help show the students the kind of opportunities that are available and the amazing possibilities that are out there for those looking to make a career in tourism.

Being a tour guide requires enthusiasm and the ability to relate to and connect to others. I would love to bring this into the learning environment here at ITC and give the students the support they need to succeed, and hopefully even continue with their studies here at ITC.

What do you think are the most important skills to have in the tourism industry?

Working in tourism requires so many skills that are transferable from and to other careers.

Customer service is surely the main one, without that you won’t get far.

Being willing and able to help people, be open to new ideas and patient in dealing with people. Passion and enthusiasm for what you’re doing is super important, it shines through when you enjoy your job and that excitement is contagious.

What’s next for tourism industry?

The tourism industry is at a really challenging yet exciting stage, as this pandemic has forced those in the industry to re-evaluate the direction we are heading.

I think while the borders are closed to international visitors it’s a great opportunity to focus tourist experiences on the local market and cater towards those exploring their own backyard.

I hope that when borders open those resilient companies that have worked through this tough time will present visitors with a new and refreshed product offering something different in an innovative way or from a fresh perspective.

What is your best advice for those getting into the industry now?

This is a great time to look at entering the tourism industry and gain a qualification which can lead towards a great career.

Moving forward, employers will be looking for workers with experience and knowledge, and a qualification in tourism will really give a prospective employee an edge – so go get studying!

The best advice I can give is to get experience in customer service, any job to go along with study. Retail or hospitality work will give such a good base to add to in any future tourism job.

My background before entering the tourism industry was in retail where you learn to interact with a wide range of people and gain excellent communication and people skills.

Start your journey in travel and tourism

Are you ready for an incredible career that takes you around the world like Michelle has done? Do you want to work for some of New Zealand’s coolest attractions?

ITC and Study From Home offer the first step on that path – an industry recognised series of qualifications that will help to get you a foot in the door at countless travel and tourism providers around New Zealand and the world.

Get in touch today to hear about our courses and where they can take you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

 

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Introducing Victoria Whittaker: ITC and Study From Home’s newest course advisor

Posted on 27/01/2022 by

Victoria Whittaker is ITC and Study From Home’s newest course advisor, bringing with her a wealth of experience in the industry.

ITC and Study From Home recently welcomed Victoria Whittaker to the team. She’s a keen traveller with years of experience in the industry, and she has just started working as a part-time course advisor.

Between her experience, passion for travel, and love of sharing all of that with the next generation looking to enter the industry, she’s the perfect person to help guide our students through their studies.

We had a quick chat with Victoria to learn more about her career in tourism and travel, what she thinks are the most important skills for graduates these days, and where she thinks the industry is headed next.

Welcome to the team! Can you tell us a little about your history working in the travel industry?

It’s great to be onboard with ITC. I started working in the travel industry in 1999 when I landed my first job with Air NZ as ground staff at the Blenheim Airport. It was fantastic, great bunch of people, I got to know the pilots, and the baggage guys were great, it was a real joy going to work.

Even got to meet Sean Fitzpatrick!! (All Black legend).

After 6 months in this role, I had an opportunity to apply for cabin crew with Air NZ. This was the role I had always dreamed of, so I went for it. Unbeknown to me when I went for my interview that the role was for International Cabin Crew which was even better. I started this role later in 1999, I met my now best friend on my training course.

I flew for 6 years in total, 4 years out of Auckland and 2 years out of the Air NZ London Base at Heathrow. It was always about the feel good experience for the customer, as most of the people on our flights were going off on exciting holidays, or away for business, so it was always important to make sure that their whole experience was a wonderful one.

How do you think that experience will help you support students?

I enjoy sharing my experiences, and I will always have time for any student who wishes to learn more, and seeks advice.

What do you think are the most important skills anyone can have in the travel and tourism industry?

Kindness, patience, and a need to want to give the best service. I think you need to have a real passion for this industry and if you do, this will really show.

What do you think is next for travel and tourism?

I think travel and tourism will come back even bigger and better once we learn to live with Covid. People who love to travel are itching to get back out there, and our young people of today will be really ready to spread their wings. I don’t think, well, I hope that these last 2 years hasn’t put people off travelling. It certainly hasn’t put me off.

What’s your best advice for students looking to get into the industry right now?

Set yourself a goal, keep focused on it, work hard and when you land your dream job, have a good work ethic, and just enjoy every day. If you can find a job that you love, then it’s not really a job.

Are you ready to be part of the team and learn from Victoria? It’s never too late to get started at ITC and Study From Home. Get in touch to find out more about our courses and how to enrol today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Now hiring: 8 incredible travel and tourism jobs

Posted on 19/01/2022 by

Looking for a job in travel and tourism? Here are 8 amazing opportunities available only to ITC and Study From Home students and graduates right now.

Are you passionate about travel? Driven and ready to learn? Ready to enter one of the most exciting industries in the country?

The travel and tourism industry is looking for you!

There are countless incredible roles available in the industry right now, and with the right qualification from ITC or Study From Home, as well as application support from our Employment Consultants, our graduates are perfectly placed to land some of these phenomenal roles.

Which of these current job listings sound like you?

Cabin crew – Jetstar

Jetset with Jetstar in this cabin crew role. It’s part-time and based in Auckland, which could be the perfect opportunity for someone to get a foot in the door while finishing their studies. And don’t forget, many part-time roles can lead to full-time positions.

Aviation Security Officers

Auckland and Christchurch Airports are both currently on the lookout for qualified Aviation Security Officers. Auckland Airport is also looking for a load & queue assistant. For those looking for a career in aviation, this is the perfect starting point.

Milford Wanderer Crew Member – Discovery Expeditions RealNZ

There’s something truly magical about the Milford Sound, and not only can you enjoy it for yourself for a two-week-on and two-week-off roster, you can help others discover it as well as part of the crew of the Wanderer. This candidate must be a real team player and something of a jack-of-all-trades who can do everything from assist with food preparation to guiding guests on activities.

Front of House agent – Sandspit Holiday Park

Sandspit Holiday Park is a picturesque holiday park in Rodney, where guests come to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather and beaches. This Front of House agent will need to be friendly, welcoming, and helpful, and for the right person, this full-time role may even come with accommodation.

Guest Services Host – Kelly Tarltons Sealife Centre

Who loves travel and tourism and the ocean? This part-time position is ideal for friendly candidates who are excited by sealife and want to share it with visitors. This is a job that’s all about fun, but also comes with amazing perks such as free access to attractions and volunteer days to give back to social causes.

Flight attendants – Jetconnect

Jetconnect is looking for flight attendants to be based in both Auckland and Wellington in full time roles. ITC and Study From Home courses specifically focus on offering the skills and qualifications you’ll need for these roles, and our Employment Consultants can offer you advice and support as you apply and go through the interview process.

Branch team member – Jucy Rentals

Do you love road trips? Do your friends always come to you for the best advice on where to stop and what to do? This full-time branch team member role in Auckland needs someone excited to be part of the full customer experience, from ensuring all rentals go out in top condition, handing over the keys, and offering your best New Zealand road trip advice.

Visitor Hosts – Hundertwasser Art Centre

Whangarei’s Hundertwasser Art Centre is one of New Zealand’s underrated tourist attractions, and it needs passionate staff to help welcome tourists on site and ensure the best customer service possible. This part-time role would be ideal for anyone with a special interest in art, and for those looking to become hosts in the tourism industry.

Of course, these are just a handful of the incredible travel, tourism, and aviation roles available right now. There will be more a week from now, and plenty of new opportunities once you have graduated with ITC or Study From Home qualifications that will give you a leg up in the industry.

And that’s not even mentioning the countless opportunities available all around the world.

If you’re a current student or recent graduate looking to get started in the industry, take a look at these opportunities and more on our Current Job Vacancy page. These vacancies are only available for ITC and Study From Home students. With study options available right now, why not become one today?

If you’re interested in working in these kinds of roles one day, but don’t yet have the qualifications to apply, consider studying with ITC or Study From Home to earn industry-recognised qualifications from tutors who are just as excited about the industry as you are.

Take a look at our available courses here or get in touch to find out more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Turn your summer adventures into an incredible career

Posted on 29/12/2021 by

Roy’s Peak is one of New Zealand’s best tourist attractions. Can you imagine making a career out of helping others visit places like this?

Merry Christmas and happy New Year to everyone! We hope you’re out enjoying the beautiful New Zealand summer and everything that has to offer, from fish’n’chips on the beach, to Great Walks, to awesome sightseeing and tourist attractions.

It’s the best time of year to get out and explore our backyard, and while you’re at it, why not consider turning this sense of fun and exploration into a lifelong career that’s as rewarding as it is enjoyable?

Study for a career in tourism and travel with ITC

From Hobbiton to the AJ Hackett Bungys, whale watching, and relaxing hot pools and spas dotted around the country, New Zealand is brimming with fantastic tourist attractions. And as a leading provider of tourism and travel qualifications, we’re proud to say that we have graduates working in many of these attractions across New Zealand (and the world!).

ITC offers industry-recognised travel and tourism courses at level 3, 4, and 5.

These courses run from just 20 weeks to two years, allowing you to pick up a qualification quickly and get straight to work, or take the time to earn a higher-level qualification and take a step up in your career goals.

All courses are NZQA accredited, are approved for student loans and allowances, and some students are eligible for the NZ Fees Free program.

Working in travel and tourism

To work in travel and tourism is to have an exciting career that’s always changing, always rewarding, and always fun.

All of our tutors at ITC have some kind of industry experience, so they’ll be the first to tell you the benefits of this career, and will help you work towards your goals in the industry.

Additionally, ITC employs two Employment Consultants, who work with current students, recent graduates, and even graduates who have left ITC years before to find roles in the industry. They can help find new opportunities and work with you to improve your CV and fine tune your interview skills.

Right now, tourism is gearing up and getting ready to boom once borders reopen and things start returning to normal. We’re already seeing an increase in available roles for qualified employees, and we know that’s only going to grow once things truly get up and running again.

That means, if you make a resolution to earn a qualification now, you’ll be graduating right as tourism takes off – setting you up to step straight into an amazing role in our favourite industry.

So if you’re keen to enrol while putting your feet up over summer, you can by heading to: https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/enrol/

Or to find out more about our qualifications, how we help graduates find roles, or which course would be best to help you reach your goal, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We’ll be back in the office in the New Year and can’t wait to hear from you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Graduate interview: Meet Jack Persen, who recently landed a role with Air NZ!

Posted on 01/12/2021 by

Study From Home graduate recently landed a role with Air New Zealand.

Jack Persen earned his qualification with Study From Home, then set out to find a role in the industry – ideally in aviation.

Our team of Employment Consultants worked with Jack and encouraged him to apply for a Customer Service Agent role with Air New Zealand in Hamilton. Jack very nearly got the job but only just missed out, and clearly Air New Zealand were impressed, as they called him back to apply for a different role instead.

That’s why this summer Jack will be working with unaccompanied minors as they travel around New Zealand, a fantastic first role in the industry and one that is sure to quite literally take him places.

We received wonderful news after this amazing opportunity that Jack has been offered a permanent role as a Customer Service Agent with Air New Zealand.  He starts his new role on the 7th February 2022.  We are so pleased he still got tp his dream job.

We had a quick chat with Jack about his time with Study From Home and his unaccompanied minor role.

What was your favourite thing about Studying From Home? 

My favourite thing about studying from home was the flexibility of being still able to work part time and study when I am not working. I did also enjoy having fun and supportive tutors to work with.

How did you find out about the job you’ve applied for?

I found out about the role after they had told me that I wasn’t successful in the previous job I had applied for. Air New Zealand rang me a couple of days later offering me a different position which could lead into the role I had originally applied for.

How have you found the process of application with Air NZ? What has that been?

The process with Air New Zealand has been easy. The process started off with them ringing me to offer me the role. Once I had accepted the job, there were multiple security and health checks that I had to do which were very easy and organised by Air NZ.

How has ITC supported you with the application process?

ITC supported me with helping with my CV and also giving me helpful advice with the process of application and heaps of information about the job itself. It helped give me confidence when going through the interview process.

Do you have any advice to help inspire anyone else deciding to enter into tourism or aviation?

Follow your goals, stick to what you are doing and always put 100% effort into whatever it is. It will pay off in the end.

Working in aviation

Jack won’t be the only one getting a job with Air New Zealand this summer, as the Auckland border comes down and we look ahead to open borders for the whole country, the entire aviation industry is gearing up and hiring huge numbers of skilled staff.

In fact, Emirates recently launched their hunt for more than 3,000 cabin crew and hundreds of support roles – and that’s just one airline!

If you’d like to work in aviation, now is the time to earn a qualification so you’ve got the skills and knowledge to start a job with Air New Zealand like Jack, or any of the countless airlines around the world seeking staff right now.

Take a look at the qualifications you’ll earn with Study From Home, and get in touch with the team to find out more about enrolling!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Student interview: Meet Desiree Paul, the student scoring record-high grades while studying from home

Posted on 25/11/2021 by

Desiree at the airport with her siblings before flying to Australia.

Desiree Paul is a level 5 Study From Home student who completed levels 3 and 4 with another provider, then switched to ITC (and loved it!).

Recently, Desiree completed an assessment as part of the level 5 diploma, and received the highest grade ever given for that assessment. Needless to say, her work ethic and enthusiasm have shone through and greatly impressed her tutors and everyone on the Study From Home team, so we decided to have a quick chat with this star student.

Here’s a quick interview with Desiree about her time with Study From Home, taking on level 5, her career goals, and more.

What made you decide to get your qualifications with Study From Home?

I chose to study from home because I like the idea of being able to study on my own time. I also focus and get work done better when I am in my own space. The other reason I chose to study from home is because it allows me to do house chores when I am having a break.

You’ve already completed levels 3 & 4, so why was level 5 important to you as well?

I have always been really passionate about all aspects tourism, so as soon as I started studying tourism I decided that I would go to the highest level of studying I can. I also would like build my skill set and information.

We heard you recently received the highest grade ever on a certain paper. Was it an area you’re particularly interested in?

Wow, I’m so happy to hear that. Yes, workplace management and human resources has always been an interest of mine. I first found an interest in Human Resources when I took tourism as a class at high school.

How have you found the experience of earning qualifications from home?

I absolutely love it, being able to study in my own space and in my own time is amazing. I also love ITC, the content of the study material is interesting and really informative. I love the activities as well I find them fun but at the same time helpful.

What are your career goals once you graduate?

Once I graduate I would like to go and work on Hamilton Island, either in human resources or as a conference and events manager. I became interested in Hamilton Island when I started level 4.

Is there anything else you’d like to mention or share?

I’d like to thank ITC for this amazing opportunity I have to study with them. I absolutely love studying with ITC.

Desiree shows just how much you can achieve while studying from home. Is that something you’d be interested in? Get in touch with our friendly Study From Home team to find out more about the qualifications you can earn online, and how you can get started as soon as you’re ready!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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What’s happening around the world? An update on travel and tourism around the globe

Posted on 10/11/2021 by

The world is starting to open up. Here’s an update on what’s happening around the world in travel and tourism.

Here in New Zealand we’re working on getting our vaccine numbers up before really relaunching travel and more ease of movement, but overseas the travel and tourism industry is already heating up.

Thanks to increased vaccination rates and measures such as vaccine passports on planes, more and more countries have been able to open up for travel, and there are countless new headlines about this travel boom every single day.

With travel being so popular and airlines operating at higher levels, it has meant that incredible employment opportunities are becoming available worldwide.

Here are a select few to keep you updated.

Family travel starts making a comeback

In many places around the world, travel has been open for the vaccinated for several months. However, while children under the age of 12 were unable to be vaccinated, this made things tough for parents wanting to head away on family holidays.

Now that the vaccine has been approved for 5-12s, family travel is making a comeback.

Read more about it here.

The Airbus A380s are taking off once again

Early in the pandemic, airlines halted the use of their Airbus A380s. These planes are the world’s largest passenger airliners, and typically seat up to 525 passengers.

Recently, several airlines have started putting these planes back in the sky as travel demand picks up once again. Qatar Airways have already begun, and will be joined by Singapore Airlines and Qantas.

Read more here.

Asia-Pacific starts opening up

 Much like New Zealand, both Singapore and Malaysia aimed to completely eliminate the virus, but eventually found covid-19 in their communities. Yet with vaccines, both countries and others around Asia-Pacific have started to create pathways for travel to reboot their economies.

Vaccinated visitors from 11 countries can now travel to Singapore without needing to quarantine, and Malaysia has reopened for domestic tourism. Similarly, Thailand and Indonesia have begun easing restrictions, and of course, vaccinated Australians can also now travel home without quarantine.

Find out more here.

Travel stocks start picking up

The stock market is always a good indicator of how well an industry or company is doing, and travel companies are seeing stocks pick up across the board. From airlines to booking websites and even Airbnb, the stock market is reflecting the recovery of the industry itself.

The CEO of Expedia, Peter Kern, said it best after the company enjoyed a massive 97% growth in revenue: “Cities are picking up. International has picked up. Virtually every area has seen growth.”

Here’s the full story.

The USA reopens to Canada and Mexico

Just this week, the USA is reopening its borders to vaccinated travellers from Canada and Mexico. The borders shut at the start of the pandemic, and while travellers could fly into the country, they could not cross by land.

And unlike flights, those coming by land will not have to provide a negative PCR test, making it that much easier and more affordable for travellers looking to visit their neighbours.

See more here.

Reconnecting New Zealand with the world

Here in New Zealand, we’re excitedly waiting for our own country to open up safely so we can reconnect with the world. And the good news is that there are positive signs on the horizon.

Not only is the country’s vaccine rollout going very well and nudging us into the top countries worldwide for vaccines, the government has already announced shorter MIQ stays of 7 days (replacing the full 14 days), and suggested that it will move to a home isolation model sometime between January and April in 2022.

Read more about the plan to reconnect New Zealand with the world here.

Tourism cries out for new recruits

 Both here and around the world, the tourism industry has started hiring new recruits. They are looking for qualified professionals who can get started and help be part of travel and tourism’s triumphant return.

For those in New Zealand, the International Tourism College and Study From Home are two of the best options for students to earn valuable industry-recognised qualifications that will help them to land roles within the industry – here and overseas.

By starting your studies now, you’ll graduate at the perfect time when the industry is desperately seeking new talent.

Could that be you? Get in touch with the team to learn more about our courses and working in the industry today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Ready to Check In unit ready for take off with Study From Home

Posted on 03/11/2021 by

Ready to Check In is a revamped unit available on Study From Home, and it’s ready to take off.

Recently, the team at Study From Home have been busy creating a unit called Ready to Check In, a course that is all about aviation.

This level 3 unit is finally ready to take off, so students will be able to complete this course and earn 5 credits as part of their New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Aviation. The whole unit has been revamped to better suit the needs of the New Zealand aviation industry (it used to be more focused on Europe).

While there are many roles available across the aviation industry, Ready to Check In focuses specifically on the role of a Passenger Service Agent.

Students completing the unit will learn all the basics of the role, including the skills they’ll need, tasks they’ll complete, and overall purpose of their job.

What to expect from the Ready to Check In unit

This unit is ideal for anyone looking to work in aviation, but will be especially relevant to those hoping to become a Passenger Service Agent.

To work in this role, you’ll need:

  • Communication skills
  • Customer service skills
  • IT skills (using check-in and reservation systems)
  • Problem solving skills
  • Good teamwork skills

The unit will cover all of these areas, including industry terms and abbreviations, checking in passengers, and more.

There are two assessments during the course, one of which is a roleplay where you will check in a passenger via live video, and the other of which is an open-book written assessment.

But one of the most important thing to know about this unit is that it’s not just words on a page – it’s actually fun.

Lynelle Panton, one of the Study From Home team who helped to create Ready to Check In, had this to say:

“For me the main thing I wanted to see is that the tool was fun and interactive. I hate not having fun while learning. There is nothing worse than just having plain boring info on a screen and nothing to really capture the learner’s attention. I think with this product we have managed to do this and I think that the students will have fun along the way. We have worked really hard to ensure we have produced a product that will work for all learning styles and have lots of different types of activities and resources.”

Andrew Houston, one of the key drivers behind the creation of the new unit, adds that the variety of resources in Ready to Check In have been designed to suit all learning styles. There are written resources, videos, quizzes, visual activities and more.

This all means that the course is engaging and interactive, and it allows learners to move at their own pace in their own time.

Ultimately, it’s a fun, practical, and informative unit that ensures students will finish their qualification and enter the aviation industry ready to get to work.

Earn your aviation qualification with Study From Home

At Study From Home and ITC, we have industry sources already talking about how major airlines are desperately seeking more crew as the world opens up and people start travelling more once again.

The industry is once again employing staff across all levels of the aviation sector, and if you’re interested in becoming one of them, now’s the time to complete a qualification. You can explore our courses online and sign up today.

The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll graduate with an industry recognised qualification and the skills you need to land a job. Get in touch with our friendly team to find our more or check yourself in (enrol!) for a career in aviation!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Pandemic drives new interest in learning and upskilling

Posted on 27/10/2021 by

Throughout the pandemic, many have found a new interest in learning and upskilling.

Throughout the pandemic, many New Zealanders and people all over the world have discovered a new-found interest in upskilling and learning new things.

We all remember when many Kiwis (some of us included!) tried their hands at making home-made bread during the first lockdown, and trying all sorts of new recipes. But the interest in learning and upskilling doesn’t stop at delicious treats.

Many people have taken this time to learn something new for their careers.

Upskilling through the pandemic

During the first lockdown, comparison site Finder ran a survey on New Zealanders and found that 25% wanted to take the time to do some form of study. That’s roughly a million Kiwis seeking to learn.

For some, that was in order to change their career, while others were interested in order to avoid unemployment.

This trend has continued across the past 18 months.

In September, Pluralsight released their 2021 State of Upskilling report. This report surveyed hundreds of executives in a number of different countries, and found that half of respondents (51%) said that their organisations made upskilling a priority in 2020 when working from home became commonplace.

Additionally, financial technology group Zip Co has seen “record levels” of attendance and engagement with their virtual learning opportunities. So much so, that they have launched a 10-week training program that has been extremely well received by their teams.

Upskilling with Study From Home

Study From Home has long offered exceptional qualifications that New Zealanders can earn from the comfort of their own homes thanks to distance learning.

We offer level 3, level 4, and level 5 courses online, each of which offers a focus on travel, tourism, and aviation, but which also offer many transferable skills that can be used in a variety of industries. This includes communications, customer service, cultural awareness, human resources, management skills and more. These qualifications are great for upskilling to get into a new career, or simply upskilling your employees.

For some, Study From Home offers a chance to learn something new, perhaps at level 3 or level 4, in order to enter the exciting world of travel and tourism. For others, Study From Home offers a pathway for upskilling, even if they’re already in the industry – our New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel at level 5 is an excellent route for those in this position.

If you’re looking for online study option, especially in the travel and tourism sector, Study From Home is the perfect solution. Explore the courses available that you can start at any time, and get in touch to learn more about how you can upskill and study today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Catching up with Marise Barrett, the first ever Study From Home student to do the Level 5 diploma

Posted on 06/10/2021 by

Marise will soon be the first Study From Home student to complete the level 5 diploma.

Marise Barrett is a well-known name at Study From Home. She has diligently worked her way through levels three and four, and is currently on track to become the first ever student to complete the level five New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel.

We spoke to Marise in 2020, and thought it was high time we caught up to see how she is doing now that she’s almost finished the Diploma. As it turns out, she has been working extremely hard, enjoying a job at NZ travel agency helloworld, and looking forward to finally being able to travel again!

Read on to learn more.

Can you catch us up on the past year?

In July 2020 I signed up to do the Diploma in Travel after speaking with my boss, and asking whether I could do this while I was working when there was not a lot of work on. This was agreed, we were on limited hours so I was completing my diploma at work being able to spend 24 hours while in the office working on it.

In September 2020, the Helloworld CBD store where I was working closed its doors due to Covid. This really took a toll on me and I didn’t actually realise how much. This meant I had to look for a new job, I was out of work for five weeks in total, as I had found a job at a school doing Admin. But this also meant that I wouldn’t be able to do as much work on my diploma during the week. I was a bit worried about this as I was doing the diploma as full-time study.

In May of 2021, I was speaking to Bev at helloworld Strandon about my trip to Raro and she asked whether I wanted to get back into travel. Of course the answer was yes! So we worked something out and I was doing part time hours after I had finished at the school. I have now left the school and I am working on a part-time basis at helloworld, and I couldn’t be happier, this is truly the career I am meant to be doing.

Due to being only part time, I am also doing 10 hours in an admin role to help keep the bank balance happy. This means I do spent most of my nights working on my diploma and is why, even though I have enjoyed doing the diploma, I will be grateful for a break when it’s over.

What would you say is the biggest difference for you between levels 3 and 4, and level 5?

Huge difference between level 3 and 4 and then level 5. Level 5 is a lot more research and not so travel orientated, but management orientated. It is a lot more challenging.

The Study From Home team are happy to hear this feedback from Marise, because this option is to prepare students for the reality of a management role.

What are you most excited for once you finish the diploma?

Being able to read the books I brought a year ago haha. And doing some cross stitch. Since May I have been working two jobs, so it will be nice to give my brain a bit of break from it all. Also looking forward to doing some webinars to help with working at helloworld.

How has the Study From Home team supported you through the diploma?

The Study from home Team have been amazing! The tutors are always available. Cannot fault them and they are always there and have communication lines open. I have had to have an extension and this has been more than accommodating.

 Are you planning to travel once restrictions are lifted? If so, where to?

YES! We have a trip planned to Rarotonga in June 2022 – this has been rebooked from 2020 which we had rebooked for this year. There will be other places on the list but I will just be thankful if we can get to Raro.

Marise has been the first student to work her way through the level 5 diploma with Study From Home, but she certainly won’t be the last. Will you be next? Get in touch with the team to find out more about this incredible diploma you can earn through distance learning.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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ITC and SFH staff have more than 187 years of experience between them – what it means for students

Posted on 29/09/2021 by

The wonderful team at ITC and Study From Home.

At ITC, we’re big believers in lived experience.

That’s why our tutors are just great tutors – they’re experts in travel and tourism. They have worked in the industry, travelled plenty, and know exactly what it takes to not just get into travel jobs, but to thrive in them as well.

Together, they have had more than 187 years of experience, and every one of them adds something special for our students.

187 years of experience brings ITC students more than just quality education. It brings a memorable experience for everyone they interact with, support, real life stories, and expertise. The team at ITC and Study From Home ‘go the extra mile’ every day regardless of lockdowns. This is why so many students continue their studies and recommend a friend.

Recently, we asked each staff member to share what it is they do to go the extra mile for our students, especially in regards to recent lockdowns. Here’s what they each had to say!

Allison Jones – Tutorial Team Leader

“Sending students an email every morning reminding them of the amazing effort they’re all putting in during this challenging time, followed by our daily motivational/inspirational quote to get them started for the day.”

Examples are:

  • “Progress is progress, recognise what you’ve accomplished, reward yourself, don’t compare, love yourself, always keep going”
  • “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” Nelson Mandela
  • “A year from now you’ll be glad you stayed today” 
  • “Stay positive, think positive, do positive” 

Inder Singh – Tutor

“Answering students questions well and truly outside of business hours because some have to work and some work best in lockdown at that time. Marking online students’ papers outside of my normal hours and sometimes quite late because I know they will want their results quickly, and I want to get them back to their work. My days of work are not just Mon-Fri in level 4, but also some weekend work to help them when they need me.”

Daniel Maine – Marketing & Tourism Facilitator

Daniel has been calling hundreds of wonderful students who we’ve met across the country on a short course, expo or tourism chat. Daniel said that each conversation has been positive and enthusiastic, and he has been the epitome of what resilience is during these challenging times.

Michelle Chatfield – City Campus Manager

Organising extra support for a student to help not only them but their family. Helped with taking some of the pressure off them in such a challenging time. Reaching out to a fellow colleague and contacting them to just spend time on the phone with them and being an ear to listen.

Mel Jenkins – Marketing Manager

“Each day during Alert Level 4 I decided to create a clip a day for students of ITC and the staff so that I could share some motivation and inspiration. I called it Motivation Mel. As I progressed and more clips were produced, I saw the positive impact it was having so I even started sharing it with my own whanau and friends. It’s not only helped those around me but also it’s really helped me personally. It gives me a positive thing to focus on. You can check them out here, or watch one below!

Toni Young – Study From Home Tutor

“Responding to emails and phone calls outside our normal work times is an important part of the support for our Study from Home students while New Zealand is in lockdown. We understand how things are very different at home currently so we are being as flexible and encouraging as we can be!”

Sarah Rouse – Marketing & Tourism Facilitator

“Daniel, Shaz, Jax and myself have been working as a team these past few weeks, working extremely closely together, not only with each other but also to enroll short course students. Every Friday at 5pm we jump on teams and have a little wind down, laugh and chat to celebrate our week. It’s something we all look forward to at the end of a hard week. We are a great team at ITC.”

Susan Afoa – Tutor

“I held an extra class session for my home-class on Friday (which is usually off day off) but with a theme! The students had some remaining resits to do before their week holiday so thought it made sense. I wanted them to complete their resits before Level 4 starts and to also get their well needed break. I knew they needed some motivation to help them stay on track and that usually works when we are all online while they focus on completing their assessments. We then ended off with a Tik Tok for Maori Language week too.  My most recent quote for my students was “Do it now because LATER becomes NEVER!””

Sharon Roy – Course Advisor

“Being able to reach out to those that are keen on kick starting their journey into the travel, tourism, aviation and airline industry even in these tough times and have been able to sign enrolment papers to get a start on their career goal! We had lovely Study From Home students who started this week that had inquired during the lockdown, and being able to help make it an easier process for them and knowing they are students now is an awesome feeling.”

Takeyuki Morita – Tutor

“We have been having lots of time for talking about our life, and having lots of games to entertain the day inside the home as we know we all miss the social life. I also remind them how fantastic an effort everyone is making during this difficult time; I believe it is important for a tutor to let them know that they are making meaningful progress despite the challenges they are facing.”

“We have discussed a lot about how to take care of your physical and mental health during this challenging time, and shared lots of tips. I’ve put on a Shorinji Kempo Martial Arts training for our ITC students online during lockdown for our ITC students. This is self-defence training open to the students and their family members to get some exercise and have some fun too.”

Sarndra Stephens – Employment Consultant

“I have been reaching out to support students, past and present, in different stages of recruitment. Some for part time and others for full time jobs. I have also enjoyed working with students on an individual basis to get their CVs in top shape so they are ready to hit the ground running the minute they see a part or full time job they think has their name on it.”

Nicky McCutcheon – Employment Consultant

“The most motivating part of my role during lockdown has been the ability to create more careers resources which everyone can now use for their future career progression, these are already being used and constantly developing. I have also been able to continue with organising an industry guest speaker (online which is a little different for us) and I am finding some very exciting industry roles which I have been able to put forward some of our students/graduates for. They have attended online interviews with some really successful outcomes and have in turn been my inspiration! Lockdown is not stopping anyone, just giving us a few extra challenges to navigate along the way and what an amazing feeling to overcome some of those hurdles – we are always learning.”

Claire Huxley – Chief Executive

“I’ve really tried to focus on wellbeing for our team (and students). Offering wellbeing workshops, which our Marketing Manager Mel has used to create some excellent material for students and staff. I’ve helped with lobbying, and we were successful in getting the extra Hardship money for our students to support them during a tough time in higher alert levels. Another important focus has been on supporting people in any way so they can get vaccinated, even with time off.”

Louise Griffiths – Tutor

“Our Botany level 4 students complete their studies with us in December this year. Given the difficulties of studying during lockdown it’s been good to re-visit with each student what it is they would like to do when they finish in December. We’ve used this time wisely and worked with Nicky, our Employment Consultant, to assist them with their career conversations and looking at what opportunities there will be available including International Working Holidays. We need to remind them of why they are doing what they are doing and that Nicky has so many jobs available it will be an exciting time to assist them with applications.”

Become part of the family

Interested in studying with Study From Home and becoming part of the family that looks out for each other and goes the extra mile? We’re enrolling now, so get in touch to find out more and take the first step towards an incredible career in travel, tourism, and aviation!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Preparing for the post-lockdown boom

Posted on 07/09/2021 by

The Coromandel is one of many famous NZ places that will likely see a mini-boom post lockdown.

In March 2020, none of us really knew what was going to happen. We all locked down, worked hard at staying safe, and when our measures proved to be successful, we all celebrated by spending the rest of the year (and most of this year) travelling domestically and enjoying our own backyards more than ever before.

This time around, we’re a little wiser, a little more experienced, and a lot more hopeful about what the future holds.

This time, we know a post-lockdown travel boom is coming.

The travel and hospitality industries prepare for a boom

As a nation, we hate being cooped up, and the first thing on many people’s minds will be to get out and see family and friends, visit new places, and experience new things around Aotearoa.

Even if it takes more time than in 2020, New Zealand will eventually come out of lockdown and once again be able to enjoy travelling around the country.

That’s why the travel and hospitality industries are already preparing for increased activity in the coming months.

In a Tourism New Zealand release, the organisation stated that “there is a pent-up demand for domestic tourism post Covid-19 – travel will be local at first”, and, “despite economic conditions, consumers are still likely to want to treat themselves, especially, initially post lockdown.”

As New Zealand heads towards the warmer months and emerges from a second national lockdown, many businesses are looking forward to the mini-boom that is likely to occur, and preparing accordingly.

Using lockdown as a chance to prepare and upskill

This lockdown has felt different for everyone, and for many, it has felt different because it has been a time for preparation.

Rather than sitting at home and wondering what happens next, many are using the time to think about and prepare for what comes next.

That’s why it is the perfect time to upskill – which you can do at any time online with Study From Home. Our distance learning courses offer qualifications in travel, tourism, and aviation, all of which you can study from the comfort of your own home with little more than a laptop and an internet connection.

You can start whenever you like – you could start tomorrow if it suited you – and complete an industry-recognised qualification by the time New Zealand’s travel industry really kicks off again.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has already highlighted the value of studying from home as part of the industry’s move back to normalcy, saying that “85% of organisations indicate that online learning will play an important role in recovery plans.”

With New Zealand already making plans for how to open the border safely and allow the flow of international tourism to start again, there’s never been a better time to upskill and prepare to meet that worldwide pent-up demand for travel. It won’t be long before there are more jobs than people, and anyone with qualifications will be spoiled for choice.

Interested in using your lockdown time to upskill and prepare for the post-lockdown boom? Take a look at the Study From Home courses you can start today, or get in touch with us to find out more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Meet your Study From Home team

Posted on 24/08/2021 by

Study From Home’s friendly team

When you earn your travel and tourism qualifications with Study From Home, you’ll spend your time in front of your laptop at home.

However, you’ll still enjoy the support and guidance of our Study From Home tutors, just like you would if you were studying in person. This close-knit team works hard to support our students as they move through their coursework, and will be there for advice, help, and motivation every step of the way.

Interested in learning more about your Study From Home tutors and team? Here’s a brief introduction!

Toni Young

Toni Young is the newest member of the Study From Home team, joining the crew in early 2021. Before that, she lived in Australia and the UK, and worked as a travel agent, a teacher, and for an airline and event management company.

No two days are the same for Toni. She might be working in Teams Assessment with a group of students, on a Zoom meeting with a student overseas, marking students’ work, or working on developing new course content. She sees her role as encouraging, motivating, facilitating, and counselling students.

“Their success is our success and we have lots of processes in place to help make this happen,” she explains.

Her favourite part of the job is seeing students achieve their qualifications and start their dream jobs in the industry, and her advice to students considering studying for a career in tourism and travel is to simply do it.

“There is no better time to be studying towards your travel and tourism qualifications. The industry needs qualified and motivated students and with this qualification you will be ideally placed to enter the exciting world of travel and tourism.”

When Toni isn’t helping and motivating students for Study From Home, she can often be found on the ski fields near her home town in Christchurch.

Joy Carter

Before becoming a Study From Home tutor, Joy spent almost 10 years teaching at the ITC Botany campus, so she has extensive experience with travel, tourism, and aviation courses. Prior to her work with ITC, she spent more than 10 years selling travel holidays.

Her days are always busy; doing roleplays with students, marking student coursework, responding to queries, and checking in on student progress. She helps to update and improve resources as well, but no matter how busy she is, “we are never too busy to have a chat with our students,” she says.

She knows that some students may need a hand with technical issues, and loves to help explain tricky terminology or clarify certain questions whenever students get stuck. But her favourite part of the job is getting to know the students, sharing their journeys, and celebrating their successes.

She says that for students considering studying online with SFH, the trick is to have plenty of support.

“Let family members and friends know that you are studying and the hours you have committed to. They probably don’t realise, and you may need them to help out if you encounter challenges along the way, such as a change of routine or sickness,” she said.

Joy’s no stranger to travel herself. She has been to many places over the years, but on one particularly memorable trip to Papua New Guinea, she and her husband and young daughter experienced a real culture shock. They were advised to lock themselves in at night, and on New Year’s Eve, the police came through their backyard chasing a “rascally”!

Lynelle Panton

Lynelle’s background is all about travel. She has worked in leisure travel, in hotels, for rental car companies, and even as a corporate travel consultant at American Express. That’s when she joined the ITC team as a campus tutor, before moving across to the Study From Home team where she is also a tutor.

As a part-timer, Lynelle juggles her work with SFH with her home life, where she’s full-on with three kids. She loves that she can spend time with her children after school and help with their activities, while still working in an industry she loves so much and knows so well.

When asked what she does to go the extra mile for her students, Lynelle explained that going the extra mile simply goes hand in hand with the travel and tourism industry, so it’s important to do that from the start. This can mean doing roleplays outside of normal hours, meeting students to help with assessments, and working with students one-on-one. She loves the work, and especially so when she sees the results and added confidence in the students.

“You can see them blossom after they have had that little bit of extra help,” she says.

For anyone considering signing up with Study From Home, she says that if it’s something you really want to do, then don’t let anything stop you. She recommends using the tutors who are there specifically to help – and they want to help.

Her favourite part of the job? Seeing students grow.

“A lot of students don’t realise how much they change from the start of the course to the end. It’s not just a knowledge thing – when you have learned something you gain confidence… and obviously I love to see them get their qualification and start working in the industry!”

And if you ever have a moment, be sure to ask Lynelle about her time working at a winery. She did the usual tasks such as wine tastings, but she would also occasionally jump in the ute with the dog in the back, then drive up and down the rows of vines banging the car door and getting the dog to bark like mad to scare away the birds.

Andrew Houston

Andrew began as a tutor for the Botany Campus five years ago, but he has since worked as the Tutorial Team Leader, and is now the Botany Campus Manager and Study From Home Manager. His work with Study From Home is backed by a long career in tourism and travel, where he worked in aviation security, and for Air New Zealand and Flight Centre.

His role is incredibly diverse. He supports the tutorial, recruitment, and student services teams for the Botany Campus, and the entire Study From Home Team. He even still teaches some diploma subjects and plays an important role in developing new course materials and resources.

Recently, he has been heavily involved with creating new interactive activities, video lessons, and enhanced subject guides for Study From Home students. Andrew, and the entire team, consistently work to make improvements for a better learning experience for everyone.

“I also empower the team to look for creative solutions to assist students who are facing personal challenges whilst studying,” he adds.

His favourite part of the job is seeing students start working in the world’s most exciting industry, and his advice for anyone considering study is to check out the Study From Home Free Trial, which gives you an idea of the style of learning you can expect as a student.

When he’s not busy with ITC and Study From Home work, Andrew is working on his fitness as he gets ready to run the Queenstown Marathon in November.

Ready to meet the team for real? Get in touch with us to hear more about our distance learning options, to enrol, and to meet your new Study From Home tutors!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

 

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How to set up a productive study space

Posted on 03/08/2021 by

A great study space will help you stay focused when studying from home.

If you’re about to start studying from home, one of the best ways to prepare is to set up a productive study space before you begin.

This will be your go-to spot for all of your coursework and study, so it needs to be comfortable and offer a supportive learning environment.

Not sure where to start? Here’s how to set up a productive study space in your home.

A quiet spot

One of the hardest parts of study is keeping your focus on the task at hand, which is why it’s important to try to find a quiet area where you can study.

Ideally, this would be away from the television or living area where family members or flatmates spend time hanging out – it can be far too tempting to join in their conversations or watch whatever’s on TV instead of studying!

Clear lighting

As you will be looking at a screen and reading for a lot of your study, you will need to have good lighting to ensure you can see well without harming your eyes.

Natural light is great, but a desk lamp or well-lit room as just as beneficial for helping you see clearly.

Keep in mind, you also don’t want to be squinting into bright light. This can happen if you’re facing a window, so consider either facing away or turning your desk and chair sideways to the window.

A good desk and chair

Your goal for a study space is to be comfortable – but not too comfortable.

You want to be able to sit down for a couple of hours at a time without getting uncomfortable enough that you have to move, but you also don’t want to feel like you’re lounging. If you are too comfy, you might struggle to focus.

Similarly, be sure to get out of your pajamas when you study! You don’t need to be in formal office attire, but the act of getting dressed can help you to get in the right mindset for study.

Study supplies

All we ask of our students is that they have a personal laptop or computer to work from. This is technically all you need, but you may wish to stock up on other items if it helps your study style.

This might include:

  • A notepad or book
  • Pens in different colours
  • Highlighters
  • A ruler
  • Post-It notes

Snacks and drinks

Study is hard work, and while it’s best to get up and leave your desk for actual meals, you should also have something on hand at your desk.

A full drink bottle of water is a must, and a couple of pieces of fruit will help to keep you alert. Fruits like grapes or berries are great to nibble on throughout the day.

Of course, less healthy snacks like lollies and chips are always delicious, but keep them to a minimum!

Remove distractions

Remove any distractions from your study area to help you keep your focus where it needs to be.

This means everything from closing non-study tabs on your laptop such as Facebook or YouTube, turning your phone off or leaving it in another room, and even locking the cat out if you have to.

Even music can be a distraction, so switch it off or opt for calming background noise rather than music with lyrics.

Only use it for study

Finally – and importantly – only use your new study space to actually study.

If you start sitting there to watch Netflix, cut your nails, or chat to friends, you’ll quickly start blurring the lines between study and normal life. By only sitting there when you intend to study, you’ll help to get into the right mindset to focus on your course as soon as you sit down.

Do you have a study space ready? Are you looking to try distance learning with Study From Home? Get in touch to learn more about our courses and the qualifications you can earn from the comfort of your own home.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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What financial support is available for students looking to study with Study From Home?

Posted on 27/07/2021 by

Study From Home students have numerous options available for financial support.

Studying and learning the skills and knowledge you need to begin a career is an incredible opportunity that all of us should do at least once in a lifetime.

Yet for many, one of the hardest parts about study is being able to not just pay for the tuition, but also to be able to get by when you are spending a large amount of time on your training.

Fortunately, there is help at hand. Here’s a little more about what financial support is available for students in New Zealand.

The fees free programme

One of the best things about studying in New Zealand is the recent Fees Free Programme.

Under this programme, students studying for the first time are eligible for their first year of courses for free (or at least, paid for by the government).

Both ITC and Study From Home are recognised providers, which means that if it’s your first time studying – and even if it’s been a while since you left high school – you are likely eligible for your entire first year of study with us.

Student loans

Another perk of studying in New Zealand is the student loan scheme. New Zealand citizens and those who have been permanent residents for three years or more are able to receive student loans.

Under this scheme, StudyLink (a government agency) pays for your tuition so you can enrol to study. Once you finish studying, you pay these loans back at a low rate from your income, and you don’t pay any interest on them (unless you leave the country for more than six months).

Additionally, you can apply for a weekly student loan that provides you with funds to get by while you are studying. At the moment, that figure is up to $242.53 per week. It is highly recommended that you only apply if you need it, and only apply for what you need, as you will still need to pay these costs back when you finish your studies.

Finally, your student loan also allows you to apply for course-related costs. Fortunately if you are considering study with Study From Home, you won’t have any expensive text books or parking passes to buy. However we do ask that all students have their own personal computer or laptop, so you may wish to use your course-related costs to invest in one or to set up a study space at home.

Student allowance

A student allowance is another weekly payment you may be able to get from StudyLink. However, an allowance does not have to be paid back.

You can view more about the eligibility criteria here, but generally speaking, you first need to be a New Zealand citizen or resident who is studying full time. It will depend largely on your parents income if you are under the age of 24, and your own income and circumstances if you are over 24.

At the moment, the maximum weekly payment is $260.48 before tax, but this may be lower depending on your specific circumstances.

The maximum payment will increase by $25 per week from April 1 2022, which may help make studying that much more attainable for some students.

Our support

Studying with Study From Home is also a highly affordable option for many, as it means you don’t need to move cities to come to campus, commute daily, deal with packing or buying lunches, or even buying new clothes for classes.

We also offer support in helping you to check if you are eligible for Fees Free Study, helping you with student loan and allowance applications if necessary, and walking you through the enrolment process.

And of course, our dedicated Employment Consultants will be there for you to help you find a role in the industry once you graduate, and in the years ahead.

We want nothing more than for our students to enjoy a fulfilling study experience followed by a fun and rewarding career in the travel, tourism, and aviation industries. We know that it can be a financial challenge, but with the right support and planning, anyone can earn the qualifications they need for an incredible career.

Get in touch to find out more about distance learning with Study From Home.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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International Air Transport Association shares research highlighting demand for industry training

Posted on 20/07/2021 by

The International Air Transport Association has shared new research highlighting the need for industry training.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recently shared research highlighting how the industry is soon going to need trained employees who are ready to fill the positions created as tourism recovers.

This news comes after the IATA surveyed approximately 800 human resource leaders in the aviation industry, each of which are responsible for hiring new talent that offer the skills and knowledge necessary for the sector.

As many as half of survey respondents said their top priority was to assess the skills available in the workforce and map them against the needs of their organisations.

Additionally, “results from the survey show that the topics of safety, operations, security, and economic disciplines have been identified as the main areas where training will be required to master the currently situation. Safety was highlighted as particularly critical for airlines, ground service providers and airports.”

Not only that, but the IATA has also stated that distance learning will play a big role in preparing the tourism and travel workforce.

According to those surveyed, more than a third (36%) had already moved their focus to distance learning.

And even more interestingly, as many as 85% said that online learning will play an important role in the recovery of the industry.

“As aviation rebuilds, topics such as sustainability and digitalisation will gain importance,” said IATA.

For Study From Home, our online learning has already helped many students who were able to continue their studies during lockdowns, or take up studies from anywhere in the country without needing to move cities or commute in order to earn a valuable qualification in tourism, travel, and aviation.

We are dedicated to providing students with the training, knowledge, and practical skills they need to easily move from college into a role in the industry. Get in touch today to find out more about how our online courses can prepare you for a rewarding career in travel, tourism, and aviation.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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12 essential pieces of advice for graduates from ITC’s CEO, Claire Huxley

Posted on 13/07/2021 by

ITC and Study From Home’s CEO Claire Huxley offers 12 pieces of advice for graduates.

Claire Huxley is ITC’s Chief Executive Officer and a worldwide traveller. Her background in international travel and tourism and her own extensive travels, paired with her marketing background, make her an incredible leader for the International Travel College.

Recently, Claire offered up some words of wisdom for graduates, and for those graduating over the coming months.

“Remember the lessons you learnt during this year – resilience is about learning from what you have been through and don’t forget you’ve come this far, you can do so much more!!! Focus on progress not perfection”

Here are her 12 essential tips for graduates:

  1. The 4 Ps

 Be positive, principled, pro-active, and productive.

That’s a powerful combination that will appeal to any employer in any industry in the world.

  1. Discover yourself

 Be self-aware, learn what you are good at, what you love to do, what you dislike, and discover WHY. And don’t forget to challenge yourself.

Taking your first steps into a career is a great time for self-discovery, and it will help you to decide where you’d ultimately like to end up.

  1. Be open to change

Don’t say NO before you know, and don’t give up.

If there’s one thing we’ve all learned over the past year, it’s that things can change rapidly. Being open to change and not giving up will help you navigate changes throughout life.

  1. Don’t hide from mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes, it’s how we learn. So when you do inevitably make a mistake, own up to it, remember that no one is perfect, and take it as an opportunity to learn and improve for the future.

  1. Keep moving forward

Any career is about moving forward and keeping up that momentum to always improve and advance. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback to help guide you, and don’t let problems or challenges fester as they can slow you down or hold you back.

  1. Learn from everything

Every moment is an opportunity to learn from those around you – even if you have more experience than them!

Look for a mentor who can take you under their wing and help you continue your education even after you have graduated.

  1. Make connections

Stay in touch with us at Study From Home and with those in your graduating class – every one you meet is a possible future opportunity or job. Your biggest asset is your network, and you’ll be amazed how it can help you in the years to come.

  1. Be patient

 You might not find your dream job right away, but if you keep working towards it, you will get there.

Be resilient and keep networking, and you’re sure to find success.

  1. Utilise your co-workers

 Your co-workers once started in the same place you did – they were in your shoes as a new entrant into the industry. That’s why you can use them and learn from them, ask them questions and take their advice to help you move from being a recent graduate into an industry professional like them.

  1. Treat everyone with respect

Always be polite, and never stab anyone in the back.

You will likely meet people you don’t get along with during your career, but kindness is free, and respect will get you a lot further than petty feuds.

  1. Keep your own counsel

When you keep your own counsel, you keep your negative opinions to yourself. It basically means if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it at all.

Of course, if you have ideas to improve a service, you can discuss them with your manager, but straight out negativity is never appreciated.

  1. Prepare for the future

You never know what the future may hold, but you can prepare for it now. A big part of that is getting into good habits now that will carry you through your career. Be sure to develop good time management now, and you’ll use it every day for the rest of your life.

Are you ready to start studying travel and tourism and take your first step into an exciting industry? Explore our course options and get in touch today to find out more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Updates: The world is beginning to open up again!

Posted on 06/07/2021 by

The world is starting to open up again – do you want to be part of it?

In March last year, countries around the world slammed their borders shut. It was a shocking move, and one that largely stopped international tourism in its tracks.

Yet in an incredible collective effort, it has taken little over a year to create and roll out a vaccine, and that has meant many countries are once again looking to open their borders and welcome international tourists back in.

Here’s a little more about what’s happening around the world!

The G20 Rome Guidelines for the Future of Tourism

In early May, the G20 Tourism Ministers set out a series of guidelines for the future of tourism, which has been widely praised by industry bodies, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

These guidelines essentially outline the changes that have occurred over the past 18 months, then discuss how this global ‘pause’ can be used for future improvements in the industry. From safety and security as a major focus, to ensuring consumer confidence, and prioritising a ‘sustainable development agenda’, these governments have essentially agreed to work to improve the industry as a whole.

This set of guidelines doesn’t just look ahead to an exciting future of tourism and travel, but also seeks ways to improve the experience for everyone involved.

Borders opening to vaccinated travellers

Vaccine passports are still in the works, but that’s not stopping some countries opening up to certain fully vaccinated travellers.

France opened its doors to vaccinated travellers who can provide a negative PCR test on arrival (unvaccinated travellers must quarantine on arrival), as of early June. Greece, Israel, Ireland, The Seychelles, Poland, Spain, Germany, and numerous other countries have also announced that travellers with two doses of the vaccine (and often a recent negative test) can enter without quarantine.

It is expected that more countries will announce similar rules soon. There are some restrictions, such as for countries like India and Brazil where the virus is still out of hand, but it is overall very exciting news for the tourism industry.

What about New Zealand?

New Zealand is in a unique position in the world where we have remained largely virus-free throughout the pandemic, which means our approach to opening up will likely look a little different to the rest of the world.

For now, the focus is on vaccinating as much of the population as possible. This will help to give Kiwis protection once the borders do open up – which is why it is likely that government will wait until the majority are vaccinated before considering opening.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said that right now, “where vaccine rollout in New Zealand is incomplete, the number of countries we can safely open up to is limited.”

She would not yet comment on whether it will be a case of opening once the vaccine rollout is complete, or working with some kind of vaccine passport. The government has indicated that modelling around these scenarios is in the works, so we may be able to expect potential plans in the coming months.

For now, we in New Zealand’s tourism industry are excitedly watching as the world reopens, and as New Zealand determines its own path for a safe reopening, knowing that it all leads to travel and tourism once again booming.

If you’d like to be part of this exciting industry as it booms once again, now’s the time to earn a qualification that will open doors here in New Zealand and around the world. Get in touch with Study From Home to see what our courses in travel, tourism, and aviation can offer you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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An influx of available roles sees many ITC and SFH students find industry work

Posted on 23/06/2021 by

An increase in industry demand for qualified workers has seen more ITC and SFH graduates find work.

With hope, excitement, and relentless positivity, we’re looking ahead to a spring and summer that are bustling with tourism as New Zealand opens bubbles with Australia and the Cook Islands.

And it’s not just us preparing for greater numbers of travellers in the months to come.

Countless tourism and hospitality businesses around New Zealand have started hiring new staff to cater to the crowds.

Here’s what we’re seeing in terms of new roles coming available, and what we’re celebrating in terms of ITC and SFH graduates filling so many of them.

Tourism industry roles that have opened up

Ceri Jenkins, ITC Key Stakeholder Manager, highlighted just some of the roles that have come available in the past six weeks.

These include:

Full Time

  • Entrada Group – Customer Service Representative
  • Wilderness (Smart RV) – Customer service /sales administrator
  • Jucy – Customer Experience Consultant
  • Cordis – Housekeeping Attendants
  • Cordis – Event Sales Executive
  • The Loop Duty Free – Retail Sales
  • Seassonz – Inbound Tour Operator
  • Parkside Hotel and Apartments – Receptionist
  • Scenic Hotel Group – Heartland Hotel and Airedale Suites – Room attendants
  • Ezi Car Rental – Customer Relations Agent
  • ATS Pacific – Wholesale Travel Consultant
  • Cordis – Receptionist
  • The Loop Duty Free – Sales Advisor
  • Jucy – Customer Service


Part Time

  • Cordis – Reservations Sales Agent
  • Avis/Budget Group – Vehicle Service Agent
  • 27 roles at SkyCity hotels
  • Copthorne Hotel Bay of Islands – Receptionist
  • Grand Mercure Auckland – Guest Service Agent
  • Heritage Hotel – Reservations Agent
  • Scenic Hotel Group – Porter
  • Nelson Airport – Customer Services Representative
  • All Blacks Experience – Guide and Customer Experience Representative
  • Rainbows End – Cleaners, Catering, Ride Attendants and Entertainment staff Adrenalin Forest – Adventure Park Instructor
  • Menzies Aviation – Baggage Handlers
  • CAA/AVSEC (CHC) – Load Assistants
  • Sudima Hotel – Guest service Agents and Food and Beverage attendants
  • Avis Budget Group (Chch) – Vehicle Service Agent
  • ITC – Course Advisor
  • Hertz – Instant Return Representative
  • Cordis Hotel – Cody the Mascot/Ambassador

Ceri went on to explain how ITC’s involvement helps give graduates a leg up when searching for industry roles.

“Our students have to be ready for employment, and because of the connection and ongoing communication with students, graduates and employers through ITC’s Employment Consultants, we can provide this support in applying and getting their CV direct to the employer. Our quick turnaround gives our students the best chance at taking any role advertised as some employers’ expectations are to fill these roles within 3 days of advertising!”

ITC and SFH students finding industry work

With so many fantastic roles coming available around New Zealand, and our Employment Consultants Sarndra and Nicky working hard to help connect graduates to those roles, we’re seeing plenty of our students gaining employment.

Here are just a few examples of recent hires:

  • Sky City Hotel – Night Porter
  • Go rentals – Customer ambassador
  • Sky City Casino  – Table Games dealer
  • Moa Tours – Internship
  • Air NZ Koru Lounge Christchurch – Lounge Assistant
  • The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, USA – Pool Server through the IWH (International working Holidays) program
  • Air NZ – Casual Customer Service Agent in Whangarei
  • Menzies – Baggage handler
  • Helloworld – Billing consultant
  • Best Western International (Ellerslie) – Housekeeper
  • Oronga Bay Holiday Resort – Front Office
  • Jucy Snooze – Housekeeper and Front Office
  • Go Holidays – Finalisation Consultant
  • Sky City Casino – Table Games Dealer
  • Skyline Rotorua – Luge Operator

Additionally, there are numerous graduates and students in the process of applying for roles, or who are already in the interview stages, so we only expect the number of hires to increase.

If you’d like to be part of the wave of ITC and Study From Home graduates finding work in this blossoming industry, now’s the time to begin your studies. Get in touch today to find out more about our courses.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Study From Home makes distance learning more engaging and supportive than ever before

Posted on 08/06/2021 by

Study From Home has made a number of upgrades to make online learning my accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

Study From Home is one of New Zealand’s leading providers of distance learning options. And we’ve just got even better.

We have recently made a range of updates and changes to our study platform, each designed to improve the learning experience for our students. We started by asking students what they would like to see more of, and went from there.

Read on to find out just what’s changed.

Study From Home platform updates

Lynelle Panton is one of the Study From Home distance learning tutors. When speaking about the changes, she explained that the goal was to make the courses more engaging and more interactive.

This included adding a range of eBooks, activities, informative videos, and forums to start discussions.

“We have also introduced assessment guides to ensure students have more understanding of what they can expect in the assessment and hopefully ensure a more successful outcome,” she said.

“We are also wanting to make sure that we use the improvement in online learning tools to further cover all learning styles with the new improvements as everyone learns in different ways,” Lynelle added.

Additionally, the Study From Home team has been busy creating interactive video lessons for each topic. These have been created to give students an understanding of what they will learn, why they are learning it, and how it will relate to working in the industry.

Added one-on-one support

As well as changes and updates to the platform itself, the tutorial team at Study From Home have been providing a lot more one-on-one support for students.

“We have recognised that each student is different and so that sometimes there does need to be some more ‘tailored support’ for some students, while others may be happy to just get on with it. So what we have done is engage in more conversations with the students to ensure they are supported every step of the way. From this we have had good results coming through and good feedback,” explains Lynelle.

The Study From Home platform is definitely “not a box of books in the mail”, or a case of reading through a dull website and answering questions.

“I think this is what makes us different from the other course providers, and the students really appreciate it,” says Lynelle.

The result of the recent platform updates

Lynelle goes on to explain exactly what kind of an impact these changes have had on students.

“We can definitely see them engaging more with the course work and the tutors. And as a result we have gotten to know our students more. This is really important to us as we can then recognise any challenges they may have and work with them to ensure they achieve their goals. This again is where ITC stands out from others as we are flexible.”

With the challenges of the past year, Study From Home has been able to be flexible with students and courses to ensure the best results. That might mean doing courses slightly out of order, doing them at different times, or moving between full and part time – whatever the case, Study From Home can help.

Get in touch today to find out more about distance learning with Study From Home.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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How to make your winter a productive one

Posted on 01/06/2021 by

Ready to get productive this winter? Consider studying for a career in travel and tourism from the comfort of your own home!

The nights are getting darker and the days cooler, and today is officially the first day of winter.

Why not take those chilly nights and frozen days and get productive?

We suggest studying from home and earning a fantastic tourism and travel qualification (and potential new career) by the time summer arrives. Here’s everything you need to know!

Study From Home for an industry-recognised qualification

Study From Home is the online, distance learning option for the International Travel College of New Zealand. You get all the same great courses in travel in tourism, but you can study from the comfort of your own home from anywhere in the country.

With Study From Home, you can complete the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism at Level 3 or the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism with a strand in Aviation at Level 3 within just 20 weeks – or 40 weeks of part-time study. Or, you can even opt for the New Zealand Certificate in Travel at Level 4, and complete it within 21 weeks of full-time study.

And if you’re ready for Level 5 and looking to move up the career ladder, you can study the New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel, which you would be finished by this time next year.

All of these qualifications are well respected within the industry, and will have you graduating by summer with a certification that can help to land you a role within the industry just in time for the peak season.

Why choose Study From Home?

Aside from the fantastic qualifications on offer, there are multiple reasons why Study From Home is such an excellent option when considering distance learning.

Of course, you can study from wherever you are, so you don’t need to live in – or commute to – a major city, or even deal with getting to and from college every day.

It’s an ideal option for those with work or family commitments, as you can study in your own time. For those looking to study part-time, you only need to set aside 13 hours per week for your course.

These courses are designed with different learning styles in mind, and created to be engaging and informative. This means you won’t be stuck reading pages and pages of dull coursework over the winter, but working your way through an interactive and supportive learning system.

We recently launched a trial portal, so you can try it out now!

Finally, earning a qualification with Study From Home means you’ll have our full support not just during your studies, but after as well. Our team is always on hand to respond to any questions and share their advice, and our dedicated employment consultants offer a lifetime of support for graduates in helping to connect you with a role in the industry.

Here are a couple of examples of recent feedback we have received from students:

“I’m very excited to have finished…I just want to thank you for all your support and advice….it certainly has been a journey, but a very rewarding one.”

“Thank you so much for working alongside me – it has truly been such a help”

Get productive this winter

Interested in earning a qualification in tourism by peak season this summer? Get in touch with us today to find out more about our courses, your study options, and where it all might take you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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ITC and Study From Home set to attend Go With Tourism Expo this May

Posted on 05/05/2021 by

Study From Home will be at the Go With Tourism Expo from May 20-22 in Auckland!

ITC is one of New Zealand’s leading providers of tertiary-level travel and tourism training, which is why you’ll find us at many major tourism events and expos throughout the country.

This May, we’re excited to host a stall at the Go With Tourism Expo from May 20-22. This will be held at the ASB Showgrounds from 10am to 3pm each day, and is a free event – just be sure to register!

Read on to find out more about this fantastic expo and how you can win prizes that will help you prepare for the tropical bubble when you come and visit our stall!

Visit ITC at the expo to win!

The International Travel College of New Zealand (known as Study From Home for our distance learning students) will be present at the Auckland Go With Tourism Expo, and we can’t wait to chat with potential future students at our stall.

The 2021 expo will be filled with tourism providers looking for employees, study options, and chances to get some hands-on industry experience.

Some of our fabulous staff will be there, and so will a handful of student volunteers, so you can ask current students about what it’s like to be enrolled with ITC and studying travel and tourism.

We’ll be chatting about our course options, what life is like on campus or if you choose to Study From Home, and where those qualifications might take you in the future. You can ask all your burning questions and chat about the tourism industry that we’re so passionate about.

As an extra perk for coming to see us, we’ll be giving away some awesome pool toys that will help to prepare you for the upcoming tropical bubble. All you’ll need to do is fill in a contact form to go in the draw.

Go With Tourism is an organisation that was launched in 2019 to help address the skills shortage in the industry in Auckland. Thanks to its initial success, the programme has been expanded across New Zealand.

Want to learn more about the expo, ITC, or enrolling? Don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Is Study From Home right for you?

Posted on 28/04/2021 by

Not sure if Study From Home is right for you? Here’s how you can find out!

Study From Home is a fantastic option for earning a qualification in travel and tourism from home.

Our distance learning courses offer qualifications at level three, four, and five, and are recognised here in New Zealand and around the world. For many students, studying with us is covered under the Fees Free Initiative, and even better, students can enrol and start learning at any point during the year – there are no fixed start dates!

All that said, it can still be hard to tell if a college is right for you specifically. So we’ve compiled a list of the kinds of people who get the most out of our online platform and incredible courses.

Do you see yourself in this list?

You’re interested in travel and tourism

Do you love watching people setting off on a travel adventure and wondering what they are going to do? Are you the person in your friend group who’s always planning trips and finding the best places to visit? Do you love the hustle and bustle of a busy hotel with people coming and going from all walks of life?

A natural interest in travel in tourism is all you need to get started in an industry you’ll love. It’s one thing to watch it from the outside, but it’s truly something else to get up and spend every day working in such an exciting industry.

Are you working but looking to upskill or switch careers?

Study From Home is perfect for those who are already working and can’t take the time off to go back to college full time.

With our courses, you can study part time during your evenings and weekends. We offer a huge amount of flexibility with our qualifications, so you can maintain your regular job while earning a valuable skillset on the side that will help you make your next career move.

Do you want to spend your time travelling instead of studying?

Why not both?

We totally understand that passion for travel, and the desire to explore before doing anything else. But we also know that you can earn a qualification or two in the travel industry while you’re travelling. Just check out our recent interview with a graduate who did exactly that.

The Study From Home courses allow you to study anywhere at any time, so you can definitely tick off that travel bucket list while you work towards a qualification.

You want to study but can’t move cities

New Zealand has plenty of fantastic colleges and universities, but they largely based in cities and towns, which isn’t always easy if you can’t (or don’t want to!) move to study.

When you choose Study From Home, you don’t even need to leave your living room to earn your qualification. Make yourself comfortable in your home office, on the couch, or even in bed, and study wherever suits you best.

Save your money on travelling to and from college or paying rent to study in a major city, and instead use it to go on an adventure, discover our beautiful country and gain qualifications all at the same time!

You’re looking to get back into the workforce

Due to illness, injury, having kids, or any of the other things that can pop up in life, many people take a break from the workforce. You don’t need to have to explain your situation with Study From Home, you just need to get your work done at your own pace.

If you don’t know where to start in getting back into the swing of things, earning a qualification at home can be the perfect place to begin. This will set you up with skills and knowledge to work in countless roles around New Zealand.

Do you tick one of these boxes?

People enrol at Study From Home for all sorts of reasons. Whether you see yourself in the list above or have your own reason, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch today to find out more, enrol, and get started!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Meet the graduate who explored New Zealand while earning a valuable travel and tourism qualification

Posted on 21/04/2021 by

Rhiannon Cribb earned her qualifications in travel – while travelling!

When you earn your travel and tourism qualification with Study From Home, you have a large amount of flexibility.

Some students work part time, some have family at home to look after, and some simply enjoy the freedom of being able to learn while sitting comfortably on the couch in their PJs! And for some, it’s an opportunity not just to learn about travel and tourism, but to experience it at the same time.

That’s what Rhiannon Cribb, a Study From Home level 3 student, did during her studies. Here’s a little more about her experience with us, including studying during a pandemic, her goals for the future, and her great advice for anyone considering the industry for themselves.

Rhiannon’s story

I began studying with ITC at the beginning of 2020, and although 2020 didn’t go how we all wished It went, ITC made studying through a pandemic, easy.

I decided to study travel and tourism when I began intermediate and took my first international flight across the ditch to Australia with my family. Going through the airport and boarding the plane, seeing all the flight attendants dressed and groomed so perfectly made me so excited to study travel and tourism and one day become a flight attendant.

I decided to study online with ITC because I had gained the “travel bug” and wanted to work as much as possible to save my money and take all the holidays I wanted in 2020. Although internationally It didn’t happen, I was able to explore our own country, New Zealand. This was made possible because I was studying online and could get my work done in my own time, while on holiday. Because of ITC’s option to study online, I have been able to visit so many awesome, new places, that I would never have had the time or money to do, If I didn’t decide to study online.

The travel industry has been hugely impacted due to Covid-19 and I’m so thankful that I was given the opportunity to study travel and tourism and gain more knowledge to prefer myself for my future job as a flight attendant as I knew a job as a flight attendant wasn’t possible at the time.

If you are thinking of studying travel and tourism from home but still unsure of it, do It! You will get to spend more time with family and friends (which we all know we didn’t get enough of in 2020!) and more time to do more of what you love, whether that be travel, sport or just having some alone time.

Get in touch with Study From Home, because you can start any time – even right now!

Keen to enjoy the flexibility of distance learning so you can use your spare time to explore like Rhiannon did? Study From Home is accepting enrolments right now, and you can begin your courses whenever it suits you. Get in touch to learn more today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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It’s no joke! You can still enrol for our 2021 Business in Tourism Diploma

Posted on 31/03/2021 by

It’s not too late to enrol in Study From Home’s two-year Business in Tourism Diploma!

It might be April 1 tomorrow, but we’re not kidding around – we’re still accepting enrolments for our two-year Business in Tourism Diploma.

You can start courses with Study From Home whenever you’re ready, so you can enrol now and earn yourself a fantastic qualification that will be recognised by tourism and travel operators here in New Zealand and around the world.

Here’s a little more about what diploma involves and how you can enrol to kick-start your career in tourism.

What do you learn during the Business in Tourism Diploma?

Our two-year Business in Tourism Diploma brings together five of our top qualifications and certificates, which means you earn a range of skills that will serve you throughout your career.

These courses are:

  • New Zealand Certificate in Tourism Level 3 – with a strand in Tourism and Travel
  • New Zealand Certificate in Travel Level 4
  • New Zealand Diploma in Tourism Level 5
  • ITC Amadeus Reservations Certificate
  • ITC Cabin Crew Online Certificate

Generally speaking, your first year of study will cover the practical skills you will need to enter the industry. This includes role playing for customer service, travel documentation requirements, and much more.

In the second year, the focus is more on theory. This is the time to learn about areas such as marketing, human resources, and management, as well as the important topic of sustainability in tourism.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have all the practical skills and theoretical knowledge you need to enter the workforce either here in New Zealand or overseas. Tourism operators will always need skilled and qualified staff, so you’ll have a leg up over those who have never studied for the role.

Sign me up! How do I enrol for the Business in Tourism Diploma?

You can enrol for the Business in Tourism Diploma today!

To apply, simply visit our enrolment page and fill out the Enrolment Form. You can either completely sign up online, or find out more by booking an info session where you’ll have the chance to ask any questions you might have and even visit campus for a look around.

You can also get in touch at any time for a chat about the Business in Tourism Diploma or any of our other study options. We look forward to hearing from you!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Study From Home opens free trial portal – Try it now!

Posted on 10/03/2021 by

The Study From Home free trial portal is open! Try it now and find out if Study From Home is for you.

Study From Home offers students the chance to earn internationally recognised qualifications in the travel, tourism, and aviation industries, all while studying online.

For those who are considering enrolling this year, you can now see what Study From Home is all about by doing a quick trial run, completely free!

This will allow you to try Study From Home to see if the learning style will suit your needs, and to show you how you can gain your qualifications through distance learning.

Here’s a little more about the new portal, how to use it, and why you should give it a try!

Getting started with the Study From Home free trial

Anyone with a smartphone, tablet, or computer can do the Study From Home trial. You can do it via the portal here, or the Moodle app.

  • Click the ‘Start FREE Trial’ button below
  • Let us know your first and last name
  • We will create a log-in for you within 24 hours
  • You start your FREE trial
  • Your log-in details will be valid for 7 days

All you need to do is let us know your first and last name, plus your email address, so we can create a short-term log-in details for you. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours with those details so you can get started.

Your log-in details will be valid for 7 days, so you’ll have a week to jump online and check it out.

We recommend using a computer or laptop for the trial, as Study From Home students will use one or the other for their actual courses. Assessments include typing, which is much easier when you have a keyboard! That said, you can easily view the course via mobile if you’re just looking to take a peek.

The whole thing won’t take more than an hour or so, and you can always log back in (within the seven days) to take another look, or even show family and friends.

How does it work?

Once you have your log-in details, you can head to the portal and access ‘Your first step course’. You’ll see this on the Dashboard under the Course Overview section.

Click on the course, and take a look around.

You can start at the top with the section titled ‘Dream Holiday Destination’. This is a chance to see how we communicate with the group during the course. You can create your own discussion topic or respond to other topics. We use this to discuss ideas, ask questions, and more.

You might also check out the section titled ‘The Tourism Industry Needs You!’. This is a quick video followed by a quiz, which will give you an idea of how we run short quizzes for Study From Home learners.

Make your way through each of the sections to see just how it all works at Study From Home. In the final section (Your Next Step…), you can get in touch or book a phone chat to talk more about what we offer – or even get started with your enrolment!

Why should you give the Study From Home free trial a go?

If you have any interest in working in travel or tourism, you have every reason to do the free trial!

“On day one of us putting this trial on our website, students have already said they are interested in giving the free trial a go as they are keen to potentially get back into study and get some new qualifications. We think this free trial is the perfect way for our potential students to do just that,” says Marketing Manager Mel.

Whether you have never studied before or are looking to upskill with a level 4 certificate or a level 5 diploma, Study From Home could be the right option for you. You can complete our courses part-time while you maintain a full-time job, or you can study full time and earn your qualifications as quickly as possible.

Not to mention, the trial is free to do, quick, and easy! More than anything, it shows how studying online with Study From Home is so much more than just reading endless textbooks or writing essays. Our courses are engaging and interactive, with a variety of activities and resources, as well as friendly, helpful tutors who can guide you through your qualifications.

Ready to get started? Drop us a line with your full name and email address and we’ll get back to you with log-in details ASAP!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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How ITC’s flexibility makes tertiary study possible, no matter what life throws at you

Posted on 03/03/2021 by

ITC offers flexible study options, so you can earn your qualifications no matter what life throws at you.

Continuing with your studies after high school is a wonderful way to earn an education at a higher level, and to gain knowledge and skills specialised for your future dream career.

Unfortunately, not all universities and colleges make that as straight-forward as it could be. Many demand in-person attendance from Monday to Friday, with few options for flexibility, even if you desperately need it.

ITC understands that for some, tertiary study isn’t as simple as just showing up to class every day. We know that life can throw things at you that make a ‘normal’ study schedule practically impossible, no matter how badly you want to earn your qualifications.

That’s why we’ve made sure our courses are as flexible as possible. That they work with you rather than against you, so you can graduate with a valuable qualification, no matter how many challenges you face along the way.

Part-time or full-time study

If you’re ready to commit to full-time study and earn your qualifications as quickly as possible, you can certainly do so at ITC. This is a great way to throw yourself into tertiary study and work your way through your certifications.

However, if you have other commitments, such as a part-time job or a family to look after, we know that full-time study might be too much to add to your already-full plate. In this case, you can study with ITC part-time, which allows you to earn your qualifications without sacrificing time with your family or your work schedule.

Choose your campus

ITC currently offers three campus locations, so if you wish to study with us, you can pick the one that is best suited to you.

You’ll find us at:

Standard colleges and universities often only have one campus, which requires many students to relocate in order to complete their qualifications. With us, you may be able to find one much closer to home.

Campus study and online options

If you don’t live near one of our campuses, or you prefer not to commute at all in order to earn your qualification, you can always opt to study online.

Study From Home is ITC’s online option, which lets you earn the exact same level 3, 4, and 5 qualifications, but all from the comfort of your own home. All you need is your own laptop and a reliable internet connection, and you can sign up.

One of the best parts about studying online is that there are no set term dates. This means you can begin your studies at any point in the year, and even work through them even faster than the usual course if that better suits your schedule. This gives you the ultimate flexibility of being able to learn from home, while still gaining the same great qualifications as in-person students.

In late 2019 and early 2020, one ITC student discovered just how beneficial this online learning option can be. Jessica Collingwood began study with ITC in person, but she soon began having serious health issues, and had to spend large amounts of time in hospital. Not wanting to give up her studies, ITC helped her switched to our online learning portal, so she was able to finish her certificate despite her massive challenges. You can read more about her story here.

Four-day study week

Companies and organisations around the world have started experimenting with four-day work weeks, as more and more people believe that we can be just as productive – but far happier and less stressed – than sticking to the same old five-day work week.

We agree.

In 2021, ITC has moved to a four-day study week, which means that students attend courses from Monday to Thursday, enjoying their Fridays to themselves to relax, spend time with family and friends, study, or even work.

We believe this flexibility gives students much greater control over their own time, and still allows them to graduate with a fantastic qualification at the end of each course.

Here are just some of the ways ITC has made study possible thanks to our flexible options:

  • During Alert Level 4, tutors offered to drop off resources to certain students who were unable to collect due to personal circumstances.
  • Relocation from one campus to another when a student has moved cities
  • A student with a 7 month old baby and couldn’t always be on campus, but is a visual learner and doesn’t want to just study from home. We’ve offered “Blended” learning.  She will be signed up as a campus student, but will be allowed to SFH to get the best of both worlds.
  • One student did not have a device during Alert Level 4, and only a small phone to complete an assessment. So we read the questions over the phone and she wrote her answers on paper where she took photos of it all and sent them in for marking.
  • ITC Tutors teach using various ways to cater to different students’ needs. For example, by combining visuals (by writing pictures, and using the boards), auditory (letting students read the text), write and read by asking them to write what they have learned for each session, and kinaesthetic (letting them make a plot for the drama and act which is related to the topic).
  • A student was working full time during Alert Level 4 and was unable to attend class sessions. So we arranged time with her 1:1 after work around 7pm to update her.
  • 1:1 tutorial time with tutors whether that is on campus, online or via phone. Tutors will be there for students if they are not busy taking a class.
  • A couple of students began with Study From Home, but found they would prefer to study in person, so switched to on-campus with ITC!
  • One student was so keen to start work in the industry that they sped up their studies by studying level 3 in the morning on campus and level 4 in the afternoons at home.
  • One student switched from on-campus study to Study From Home in order to care for a sick family member.
  • A student was looking to drop out because she’s not computer savvy and was frustrated as she wasn’t keeping up in class. After sitting down and discussing the issue, we agreed to print out her workbooks to better suit her learning style. She has since taken a 180 degree turn in class and is doing very well.

If you’re at all concerned about committing to study this year in case life throws you a curve ball, remember that flexible study options can mean you won’t have to give up your education. Get in touch with us to chat about your options and find out more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Education through hardship: How one student completed her qualifications against the odds

Posted on 02/03/2021 by

Despite major challenges, graduate Jessica Collingwood completed her qualifications with ITC and Study From Home.

We often catch up with past students and graduates. We love hearing about how they’re going in the industry, and seeing their updates as they move into dream jobs meeting people, travelling, and learning.

But not all stories are about study then work.

Recently, we spoke to recent student Jessica Collingwood, and learned about how our famed flexible learning options weren’t just convenient, but made it possible for Jessica to graduate.

Her story shows how much ITC is here to help. We don’t set restrictions like so many education providers, but rather offer flexible alternatives for study, from our multiple campuses and online learning options, to part-time and full-time courses and four-day study week.

Our students are so much more than just a filled seat in a classroom or another name on an enrolment list, and we care about what happens both during and after the learning takes place.

Jessica Collingwood’s experience with ITC and Study From Home

“I studied at ITC doing the Level 4 Tourism certificate at the end of 2019 and beginning of 2020.

Unfortunately, as I started at ITC my health turned for the worse, I was so committed to getting my certificate that I pushed myself to go to class even when I was clearly too unwell to be there. It then just got to the point where it was becoming impossible and I started missing so many classes. I was in and out of hospital a lot.

ITC were amazing and very accommodating. They suggested I change to ITC online (Study From Home). This was the best decision for me at the time. I did not want to give up.

I managed to continue studying while being unwell and I managed to finish and get my certificate. Then the pandemic hit and of course I had all those worries about getting my dream job as travel agent.

I decided it was a good time to get myself well again, spend quality time with family and explore our beautiful country.

I am now starting the process of looking for work again but I am focusing on getting some more experience behind me in jobs that will help me in the near future when the tourism industry picks up and travel agency jobs become available.

I will use this time to build on my strengths and learn new things. I know that when Covid sorts itself out and those borders open, the tourism industry will be booming and there will be so many jobs available. Over the last year New Zealand has become more recognised throughout the world during the pandemic and people are so eager to come and see our beautiful country.

If you enjoy tourism and want a career in the industry, then go for it!

To anyone wishing to take the leap into tourism; I would say use this time to study and get experience in jobs that will help you in some way or another for your future career. Let’s be ready for our tourism industry to busier than ever.”

Do you feel like distance learning could be for you? Get in touch with Study From Home to find out more about our flexible learning options and the qualifications you can earn by studying online.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Meet the newest member of the Study From Home team: Toni Young

Posted on 24/02/2021 by

Toni Young is the newest member of the SFH team, and is excited to share her knowledge and experience!

Study From Home is a fantastic learning option for students looking to take online courses to earn a qualification in travel, tourism, and aviation. These courses are interesting, informative, and fun, but one of the best things about them is the tutors.

Our team of Study From Home tutors make all the difference, helping our students work through their online courses and get set up for an exciting career in the industry.

That’s why we’re so excited to introduce the newest member of the Study From Home team, Toni Young. Toni is experienced and talented, and we couldn’t be happier that she will be helping Study From Home learners.

Learn more about Toni and her role with Study From Home with our latest interview:

Can you give us a quick background of your career so far?

I started in the Travel and Tourism industry in the 1990s after completing my Travel and Tourism qualifications. I have been lucky enough to have worked in New Zealand, the UK and Australia in roles within Airlines, Travel Agents and Event Management.

Working within the Travel and Tourism industry has enabled me to travel to lots of different countries and have some amazing experiences while doing my dream job. Upon my return back to New Zealand I did my teaching qualifications and now love passing on my experience and teaching skills to students and helping and watching them enter the exciting world of Travel and Tourism.

What will your role be with SFH? 

I’m excited about my role with SFH, I will be here to assist, encourage and facilitate learners from Study From Home studying towards their Level 3, 4 and 5 qualifications.

What do you hope to offer the SFH students? 

I am looking forward to sharing all my knowledge with them and making their Study From Home journey as informative and fun as I can. You might be studying for the first time or haven’t studied for a long time – the Study From Home team are here to assist as you take the first step towards a career in Travel and Tourism.

Do you have any advice for SFH students this year? 

2021 is a great year for studying towards your travel and tourism qualifications. The industry is going to need qualified and motivated students moving forward and they will be skilled up and ready to go. I believe also New Zealand is the most amazing destination in the world and everyone will want to visit us as soon as they are able to!

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

My favourite holiday destination is Fiji and love enjoying the fabulous beaches and islands and of course their wonderful culture. Domestically I love the Tasman area, it is just paradise!

Would you like to earn travel and tourism qualifications this year from the comfort of your own home? Get in touch with the team at Study From Home to find out more!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Study From Home’s new quick and easy online enrolment process

Posted on 18/02/2021 by

Enrolling with Study From Home is easier than ever with our new online enrolment option.

The Study From Home enrolment process has always been easy, but it has just got even easier.

We know that finding the time and getting around to making that call to enrol isn’t as easy or convenient as it could be, which is why we have just made it even easier.

Here’s a little more about the new process.

The new Study From Home enrolment process

The enrolment process at Study From Home is largely the same, with one key difference.

Usually, an interested student would get in touch to book an info session, fill out an entry profile, attend the info session, then fill out the paperwork.

Now, students can simply complete their enrolment online. Once you have filled out the enrolment form, our staff will be in touch to finish the process with you.

This means you don’t have to call or come in for an info session if that’s too difficult or time consuming – or if you already know you want to enrol and just want to get started!

Can I still come in for an info session?

An info session on site at your nearest campus is a big part of the enrolment process, so we still highly recommend that you come in and check us out!

An info session is your chance to take a look around, meet our wonderful Study From Home staff, and ask plenty of questions as we give you all the information you need to make your decision about where to enrol.

If you’re unable to make the trip but still want all the information you’d get from an info session, don’t hesitate to drop us a line or give us a call.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Meet graduate Shania Wheatley: Finding success in travel and tourism at every turn

Posted on 09/02/2021 by

Shania Wheatley is a keen traveller and a successful ITC graduate who is currently studying level 5 through Study From Home.

We were fortunate enough to meet Shania Wheatley when she studied with us at ITC on our City Road campus. She studied with us in 2016, and very quickly landed a sought-after spot in Disney’s Cultural Exchange Program following her qualification.

We even interviewed her about her fantastic success back in 2017!

Now, Shania is back in New Zealand, both studying our level 5 course through the Upskill4FREE initiative with Study From Home and working in the industry. We thought it was the perfect time to catch up again!

What have you been up to since we last spoke? 

I’ve done a lot since we last spoke. I went off and completed a Disney internship working as a slide operator at Disney’s Blizzard Beach, and then transferred to merchandise at the emporium in Magic Kingdom.

Once I returned to New Zealand I started working for Air New Zealand for a while before transitioning into a more admin role with Haka Tours which was a fixed term contract.

How did covid-19 impact your career?

In February of 2020 I had signed a contract and was supposed to start my dream job becoming a travel agent. However at this stage Covid had spread from China and had hit all over Europe, so a week before I was supposed to start I lost the job due to the impact of the spread internationally.

It was a very confusing time as no one in New Zealand really understood the virus and no one realised the impact it would have on our country, let alone the world, as it hadn’t even transitioned onto New Zealand soil yet. So at the very beginning I thought I was quite alone.

ITC was great though, when it happened, and I got the email that I had lost this role I called Sarndra straight away and she had a list of roles available which she talked through with me and was ready to put my name forward for. Little did I know, 1 month later our first case arrived in New Zealand.

What is your current job position and how are you finding it?

I have recently moved to Christchurch and I have gained a guest services role with the Chateau On The Park, a Double Tree by Hilton Hotel which is currently a isolation facility. It sounds daunting, but honestly I feel more safe checking in a guest there than I do walking around in the community due to the health and safety and PPE protection protocols they have in place at the hotel.

How did you hear about the Upskill4FREE program and what made you decide to try it?
I actually reached out to the chief executive of ITC Claire Huxley as she posted on Linkedin how ITC has been impacted by Covid, and I just sent her a private message about the praises I had for both Toni and Sarndra and she mentioned it to me and it just went from there.

What are your ultimate career goals?

To this day I have worked for airlines, cruise-lines, entertainment, and at the moment breaking into hospitality so to answer that now I don’t actually know. The tourism industry has so many areas that you can work in.

You really aren’t limited to a certain sector when in the industry. I would love to go back to being a travel agent as I didn’t really even get to start that but right now opportunities are popping up left right and centre. I’m happy where I am now but in a few years you just never really know what doors can open up as with my current role I could go worldwide.

What do you think is next for New Zealand’s tourism industry?

The tourism industry in my opinion struggled the most, but we are also recovering the strongest. The way tourism companies have established new ways to do things and the new roles that have been created show Covid isn’t going to hold us back. Even with the borders closed there are still so many opportunities being created daily by operators.

If I was a student at the moment worried about the future of tourism I’d just want them to remember that a few years ago we were affected by the swine flu and look how we recovered from that. Tourism may be affected with huge global pandemics like this but you won’t see any other industry bounce back like we do.

Use this opportunity while the borders are closed to network! As soon as the borders open up it’s going to be as busy as ever and they will look for the most qualified, but while it’s calm and borders are closed operators are more than happy to train up from the beginning, so use this time to attend events and network with those in the industry.

Personally while I was at ITC I was attending International Travel Summit conferences with industry leaders from around the world, which have been held in Auckland, and also TIA – Tourism Industry Aotearoa – conferences in Rotorua. These allowed me to network and I actually received business cards from senior leaders from different tourism operators telling me to reach out once I had finished my Disney internship, but I didn’t end up needing them as having Disney on the resume opened a lot of doors for me.

 

If you’re interested in studying from home while working like Shania, get in touch with the team to see how our courses can work for you.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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How to make time for studying

Posted on 04/02/2021 by

With the study year underway, we share our top tips for making time for studying.

As we get back into the rhythm of education and study, it’s time to get back into good study habits as well.

Sometimes, it can feel like there simply isn’t enough time in the day, but the trick is really to make time. Set it aside and stick to it so you can stay on top of your studies and graduate this year ready to kick-start a career in travel, tourism, or aviation (or any industry!).

Here are our top tips for making time for study this year.

Spend a week counting your media time

Media, from television series and movies to podcasts, social media, and YouTube, are all fun ways to pass the time. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying watching your favourite shows or re-watching Harry Potter movies for the 100th time, but it might surprise you just how much time all of that really takes.

For one week, make note of how much time you spend watching shows, scrolling Instagram, or watching TikToks. At the end of the week, use the result to set a new goal.

For example, if you spent 30 hours consuming media this week, aim to cut that down to 15 hours next week. 15 hours is still plenty of time to relax and enjoy your favourite shows, but you will have saved 15 hours that you can spend studying instead!

Don’t try to do it all at once

You might look at your usual schedule and think that the only time you can study is on Sunday evenings.

Sunday is a great time to study, but you can’t expect to complete a full week of study within one sitting. There’s too much information to cover all in one go, and it’s more likely that you’ll feel overwhelmed and burnt out than up to date with your study.

Instead, break up your study into lots of time throughout the week. An hour or two here and there, a longer session on Sundays, and perhaps a regular time slot every weekday evening – breaking it up is a much more realistic approach and will help to ensure you don’t feel too overloaded.

Treat it like a job

When you have a job, you make sacrifices for it. You get a good night’s rest before a morning shift, you set an alarm and get up early for it, you turn down the offer of grabbing a coffee with a friend when you’re due to work (but reschedule the coffee for when you are free!).

If you think of your studies as a job, you’ll have an easier time making study a priority, rather than a last choice for how to spend your time. Once you have set your study hours, turn up on time just as you would with a job, and you’ll quickly get on top of your education.

Give yourself breaks

It might sound counterintuitive, but giving yourself regular breaks as you study can help you to get the most out of your study time.

After one hour of study, reward yourself with a quick walk, reading a chapter of your book, a YouTube video, or 15 minutes chatting with a friend. These breaks will give your brain a rest and ensure you’re refreshed and ready to go when you get back to your studies, so you can spend that time as productively as possible and get through your work faster.

Reward yourself

If you find that you can never get much done without some kind of reward at the end – so be it.

A reward could be anything from a delicious snack to time spent gaming or even a nap. When you know there’s a reward waiting for you at the end of your study session (even if it’s a small one), that might help to give you the incentive you need to sit down and get the work done.

Feeling inspired and ready to study for the career of your dreams? Study From Home allows you to work towards an industry-recognised qualification from anywhere in New Zealand in your own time, and you can get started whenever it suits you.

Get in touch to find out more.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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Still deciding where to enrol in 2021? Ask your provider these questions!

Posted on 14/01/2021 by

Still deciding where to enrol for distance learning in 2021? Here are the top questions to ask providers.

As we begin the new year, there are countless would-be students around the country wondering where they should enroll. Which provider will offer the best education? The best stepping stone into the industry of their dreams?

It can be a challenging decision, and one that only you can make. To help point you in the right direction, we’ve put together our list of the most important questions to ask your potential providers. Their answers should help you to make your decision!

Here are our 9 top questions, and the answers you’ll get from Study From Home!

What relationship does the provider have with their industry?

Study From Home works closely with employers from the airline, aviation, travel and tourism industries. We meet with our Industry Advisory Board 3-4 times a year to ensure our courses are well-aligned with industry requirements.

Our industry connections ensure that our graduates have the most up-to-date range of practical skills, knowledge, and technical abilities needed for their new career.

What happens at the end of your studies?

Towards the end of their studies, our students have access to extensive careers training which will prepare them for interviews and employment. They will have meetings with their online tutors to discuss making those plans a reality.

What job placement opportunities and careers preparation do they offer?

We have two dedicated employment consultants who focus on helping students to find placements in the industry. Both Sarndra and Nicky help Study From Home students and graduates gain employment in the airline, travel and tourism workforce. This is true whether you’ve just graduated, or are looking for a new job years after graduation.

They do this by:

  • Assisting with the final check of students’ CVs
  • Assisting with interview preparation
  • Helping students find part-time employment during study
  • Informing students about work experience and volunteer opportunities
  • Instilling and inspiring good work ethic values
  • Providing support, encouragement, and HR advice


What is the experience or background of the tutors who teach students?

The tutorial team is hand-picked for their extensive travel industry experience within New Zealand and overseas. They offer a real depth of skill and expertise and their strong industry knowledge makes them a valuable resource for students.

In fact, our tutors need to have at least 3 years previous experience in a travel and tourism role prior to being employed. This means you know what we deliver is from our own experience and not just from a text book.

Are the courses recognised overseas and in NZ?

Study From Home is registered and accredited with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) as a Category 1 provider, the International Air Transport Association (IATA/UFTAA), Amadeus and Ready To Check In. All our courses are approved for student loans and allowances with the Ministry of Education and recognised and approved for student visas with the New Zealand Immigration Service.

We are also proud to be a selected member of Quality Education (winners of 4 ST Star Awards for ‘School Association’). Based in the UK, Quality Education is a brand that brings together a selection of the very best independent English language schools and colleges from around the world. Quality Education schools/colleges are regularly evaluated and monitored to ensure the highest quality is maintained.

What are some of the success stories of your previous students?

We love to stay in touch with past graduates, and we often hear about some of their success stories.

In fact, we tend to share these stories on our blog, so you can check out what some of our graduates are up to now!

What exposure to the industry does the provider give you during your studies?

Study From Home holds regular Industry Expos and presents videos of our guest speakers from a variety of industry businesses. These employers are invited to speak to the students and give them an insight to possible career paths, and these events are an excellent networking opportunity for our students and often lead to work experience placements.

We have also teamed up with IEP Working Holidays to help facilitate international exchanges for students to gain experience in the hospitality industry. Participants on the Work USA 12 month program will work at The Broadmoor five-star AAA Five-Diamond resort in Colorado Springs.

What makes you different?

When you are a part of the Study From Home family at ITC, you’ll notice something special about us. Here you’ll not only find a comfortable learning environment, but something more. You’ll find a spirit of warmth and friendliness, a positive attitude that is shared by everyone and a sense of achievement and professionalism between staff and students. Even though our students are online, they are able to reach out to our expert tutors for support and assistance whenever needed.

We have tutors from the industry, an outstanding relationship with employers in our industry, and employment consultants that work full-time to assist students with gaining work experience through part-time work whilst studying, and employment once graduated.

Our industry connections ensure that graduates have the most up-to-date range of practical skills, knowledge and technical abilities needed for their new career.

It’s more than a qualification to us. We want our students to reach their career goals and we support that journey from the moment they enquire about our courses. We regularly meet as a team to always strive to ensure we are doing the very best for our students and staff.

Have you achieved recognition or awards?

As multiple winners of the New Zealand Tourism Award, including the prestigious Distinction Award, ITC truly is a leader in its field. The college is consistently recognised for excellence in its field through awards, a true testament to the quality of the courses and the skill of the tutors.

“We enter awards to demonstrate to our students and industry partners that we are confident in our ability to achieve excellence and that we are prepared to be judged,” says Chief Executive, Claire Huxley.

“Going through the awards entry process is incredibly valuable. We put our business under the microscope and identify where we are excelling and where we can make improvements. And most importantly, entering awards allows us to prove that we are the best at what we do.”

 

If you have any further questions of your own, don’t hesitate to reach out today!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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The most frequently asked questions about Study From Home

Posted on 08/12/2020 by

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Study From Home – and the answers!

Study From Home is a wonderful option for distance learning in New Zealand. We offer courses on travel, tourism, and aviation that provide the skills, knowledge, and qualifications you’ll need to work in the industry both here in New Zealand and around the world.

Our course options cover levels 3, 4, and 5, and all of them can be completed online, allowing students to sign up no matter where they are located in the country.

Naturally, if you’re considering signing up with Study From Home, you might have questions about the courses, the commitment, the work, and everything in between. That’s why we’ve collated a list of our most frequently asked questions and have answered them for you here.

If you can’t find your question below, don’t hesitate to get in touch via our contact page, or send us a message via Facebook. There are no stupid questions, so get in touch!

Can I enrol with Study From Home if I have a full-time job?

Yes! You can choose to study part-time or full-time with Study From Home, so if you already have a full-time job, you can study with us part-time as well. You will be expected to commit to 15 hours per week of study, which you can do during the evenings and weekends whenever suits you.

Do I have to log on at a particular time?

No. SFH is completely flexible in the fact that you set your own timetable for when you want to study. It is a course that is completely tailored to the individual student around their study times.

Are all my assessments essays?

No. Study From Home incorporates many assessment styles to ensure students are tested in ways that actually relate to the jobs in the industry. There is a mixture of written assessments, roleplays both via phone and video, online quiz assessments, and group Zoom assessments.

Is there any tutor help?

Definitely. There is a team of dedicated tutors available online, via email and phone Monday to Friday. All have industry experience and can draw upon their own work and knowledge.

How many hours a week do I need to study?

Study hours are based on your type of enrolment. Study From Home offers both part time and full time study options, and hours will range from 15-25 hours a week.

What happens if I don’t have a computer?

You absolutely must have your own personal laptop or computer before you enrol. If you currently share one with the family, you will need to ensure you obtain a laptop or computer of your own. This is because you will need to use it regularly for your studies.

I am worried I will fail.

The tutor team is here to help. You won’t fail – you will be given an opportunity to gain further understanding with tutorial explanations and guidance.

I have fallen behind.

The tutors will work with you to catch you up and get you back on track.

Can I do more studies than required and set out each week?

Yes. Once you are enrolled, you will have full access to the course page so you can move through quicker than is set out in your individualised study plan if you prefer.

I can’t start yet as I am going on holiday for a week.

Awesome news you are going away! We can get you a little ahead of schedule before you go away so you don’t fall behind when you return.

I know I love travel and tourism but don’t know what job I want to do. Can I still do the course?

Definitely! Lots of people are not 100% certain of what they want to do in the industry but know that this is an industry that excites them. While on the course you will find yourself exposed to the many different jobs in the industry, which will help you decide along the way. You will also realise that your qualification means you won’t only have a qualification for one job, but for the whole industry. Your skills will be able to be transferred to other areas of the industry.

The industry is non-existent at the moment so I probably won’t get a job.

Not true. While our borders remain closed into New Zealand, New Zealand’s domestic tourism market has never been busier! ITC has two career consultants that work with you to help you gain employment in the industry. We are also very lucky to have such close relationships within the industry, so tourism providers often come to us directly looking for graduates from ITC to join their teams.

I never studied travel or tourism at school, does this mean I can’t study it now?

You most definitely can. It is not a pre-requisite to have studied it before.

On what dates do Study From Home courses start throughout the year?

Study From Home offers ‘rolling start dates’ for maximum student flexibility and convenience. This means that students can begin their course on any Monday throughout the year.

Where are you located?

Study From Home is online, but our sister company, the International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC) has locations in centres throughout the country, so you can visit a campus at any time if you wish to speak to a tutor in person. You’ll find our campus locations here.

How do I enrol?

Enrolment with Study From Home is a straight-forward process. Start by getting in touch with us to let us know you’re interested, then fill out the entry profile we send you. We’ll set up an information session where you can ask any questions and we’ll talk you through our course options and how it all works, then we’ll confirm your place. You can read more about the full Study From Home enrolment process here.

 How much does Study From Home cost?

Different Study From Home courses have different fees. You can find the costs for each one by visiting our Course Overview page, then clicking the ‘Find out more’ button for each page. The costs are at the bottom right of the page under ‘course fees’.

 How do I find my NSN number?

Study From Home is an affiliated Fees Free provider, which means that our courses are covered by the Fees Free initiative. To find out if you are eligible for the Fees Free initiative, you will need to enter your National Student Number (NSN) into the Fees Free website. If you are unsure about your NSN number, you can either ask your current school, or contact the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to track it down.

If you’re ready to enrol or have any further questions for us, use the details below to get in touch.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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How to enrol with Study From Home

Posted on 01/12/2020 by

Looking to enrol with Study From Home? Here’s how it all works!

It’s the end of the year, which is an exciting time when we can look ahead and consider what’s in store for 2021. For many students leaving high school, and for many adult learners looking to get back into study or retrain, that might mean enrolling with Study From Home.

If you’ve taken a look at the wonderful training and opportunities Study From Home offers, now’s the time to begin the enrolment process.

Here’s how it all works!

Get in touch

To get started, simply get in touch. You can call us directly for free on 0800 868 747 or reach out on our contact page.

You’re welcome to ask questions at any point, but the main purpose of this initial stage is to set up an Information Session where we can run you through the course information, how Study From Home Works, and everything else you’ll need to know about studying with us.

We’ll arrange a time for a call that suits you, and I’ll send you an Entry Profile link.

Fill in the Entry Profile

An Entry Profile is a set of questions we ask of all of our prospective students. This lets us know a little more about you, such as your current skillsets, work history, and study history.

This is definitely not a test of any kind, and you can do it from home at your own pace. We do ask that you complete this profile prior to your Information Session, as it lets us tailor the session to your needs and interests, and saves time in the session itself.

Take your Information Session

An Information Session is your chance to ask all the questions you’re curious about, and chat to a Course Advisor who can talk you through all of the options available to Study From Home students.

You’re welcome to have a parent or two on the call with you if they have questions or would like to hear more about the course, and you can expect this session to last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many questions you have!

We’ll cover the length of the courses, how many units each one is worth, and what your day-to-day study schedule might be like that you would need to do from home. We’ll chat about the great opportunities that will be available to you with our qualifications, and about the support we offer our students long after they graduate.

For example, as a Study From Home student, you’ll do a minimum of 15 hours of study each week. You’ll also have dedicated tutors who will support you every step of the way, so you won’t feel alone in your work.

Assessments can take place over the phone and as role plays with tutors, so it won’t all be paper-based, either. However, you must have your own laptop or computer to enrol (rather than a shared family computer, for example).

If you would prefer to attend an Information Session in person and are able to visit one of our International Travel College campuses, you’d be more than welcome to do that instead.

And of course, this Information Session does not mean you are obliged to enrol. You can take your time and consider your options before taking the next step.

We confirm your place with Study From Home

Within 48 hours following your Information Session, we’ll let you know if you have a place with Study From Home.

Once your spot is confirmed, we’ll send you the official paperwork. This will include a confirmation letter, an invoice for the fees, and some quick paperwork for you to fill out.

Keep in mind, Study From Home is part of the Fees Free initiative, so many students can study with us for free. If you are not eligible, we can help you apply for a Study Link loan to cover the costs.

What happens if you don’t have enough level 2 credits?

The courses available with Study From Home cover levels 3, 4, and 5, which means that you must have passed level 2 in high school. If you haven’t reached that mark, there are still options available to you.

For example, we can refer you to Target, a New Zealand organisation that offers free courses that can help to bridge the gap and gain your NCEA levels so you can enrol with SFH.

If you are not far away from passing level 2, be sure to get in touch for a chat. For 2020 students in particular, we understand it has been a difficult year for everyone, and we’d love to work with you to help you study with us.

What happens after Study From Home?

 The biggest reason anyone signs up with Study From Home is for the wonderful career opportunities it brings.

The skills you learn are highly transferable, and will be in high demand both here and overseas by the time you graduate. We have numerous close contacts in the local tourism industry, and our graduates have become highly regarded across New Zealand, which is why they are often snapped up soon after graduation.

Here’s just one of our wonderful reviews from recent Study From Home graduate, Bria Walsh, who is currently working as a full-time receptionist at a 4-star hotel/motel on the West Coast:

“Studying whilst being able to work Full Time is definitely challenging, although knowing the outcome I’ll receive becomes very motivating to either research towards or answer at least one question a day. Being able to Study From Home is very relaxing as you don’t need to study set times of the day, you are able to study in your free time.”

We also offer ongoing career support after you graduate, and we stay in touch with our students for years after you leave. If you have any further questions or are ready to enrol, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

 

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The tourism industry needs you

Posted on 26/11/2020 by

The tourism industry is crying out for skilled and qualified staff. Right now is the perfect time to enrol with Study From Home and start an exciting career in the industry.

This is a message for anyone who is considering studying for a career in travel, tourism, or aviation in 2021.

We need you!

Or more specifically, the industry needs you!

Why the tourism industry is crying out for skilled staff

It has certainly been a tough year for everyone, the tourism industry perhaps most of all. However, we’re already seeing an increase in domestic tourism, and with so much positive news surrounding covid-19 vaccines, it seems highly likely that international tourism will soon be back on the cards as well.

Yet even more importantly, local tourism providers were already struggling to find enough skilled staff to fill positions even before the border was closed. Now, as migrant workers have largely returned to their home countries, and as no visa holders are allowed to enter New Zealand and take up roles, travel and tourism providers around the country are more desperate than ever.

In a recent press release from the Tourism Industry Association (TIA), it was revealed that 45% of industry employers have found it difficult to find suitable candidates.

We recently reached out to our friends in the tourism industry to be a part of our ‘We Need You’ campaign. They were more than willing to help us share the message with you all that in fact, we need you to help us fill the employment shortage in our growing industry.

What’s next for New Zealand tourism

In a normal year, domestic tourism accounts for approximately 60% of New Zealand’s total tourism revenue. As Kiwis turn to their own backyard for holidays this year and over the coming months, it is expected that the usual domestic spend will increase drastically.

Not to mention, there is still hope for a travel bubble to open between Australia and New Zealand. If – and perhaps when – that happens, that would mean opening the borders to our largest offshore market. Australia represents almost half of all our international market, and brought in over 1.5 million arrivals in 2019 – how many more will come if New Zealand is the only international destination available?

The new tourism environment will likely lean heavily on employing local workers that have been trained here in New Zealand, already have their industry qualifications, and are ready to get started.

Between the increasing demand for tourism and the notable lack of skilled workers to take up those roles, there has never been a better time to start studying for a career in the industry.

Studying tourism and travel with Study From Home

Study From Home (SFH) is a premium supplier of level 3, 4, and 5 courses in the travel, tourism, and aviation industries.

Our students learn invaluable transferable skills specifically for the industry, which they can put to use here in New Zealand or take with them around the world. At SFH, our tutors have all worked in the industry, and we maintain many strong connections with local tourism providers.

In fact, SFH has created such a reputation for producing skilled and passionate graduates, that our students are always in demand from industry employers.

In addition, our strong focus on employment preparation and career guidance means that graduates are work-ready on course completion, and in many cases, already have job offers from employers through our career expos, industry networking events, and the sector-wide recruitment services made available to employers.

By studying in 2021, students will graduate in 12-18 months, at which point the industry could be even more exciting, and when it will likely look very different than what it does right now.

With our qualifications, you’ll be ready to enter the workforce at the exact moment the global travel industry is once again kicking off – and in genuine need of qualified workers who love to travel, meet people, and enjoy new experiences.

Could that be you?

Learn more about our 2021 courses and get in touch to kick start an exciting and rewarding career in tourism, travel, and aviation.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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How to Study From Home for FREE

Posted on 12/11/2020 by

The Fees Free initiative allows many students to enrol with Study From Home for free.

Did you know that you can enrol with the International Travel College (ITC), and complete your course with distance learning for free?

The New Zealand Fees Free initiative allows many students to study for free, even if it’s been a while since you left school, or if you are distance learning with Study From Home.

Here’s a little more about the initiative, which courses you can enrol in with Study From Home, and how to claim your free study!

What is the Fees Free initiative?

The Fees Free initiative is a relatively new New Zealand government scheme that allows students to study for free for one year, or claim two years of free training.

This means that the government will pay your tuition costs for a year, greatly reducing the cost of study for some students, and completely covering it for others.

Am I eligible to study for free with the Fees Free initiative?  

Many students are surprised to learn that they are eligible for the Fees Free initiative as they might have left school years ago, or are planning to study from home instead of at a college or university.

It is likely that you are eligible for Fees Free if this will be your first year of tertiary study after high school, regardless of when you left high school. Also, there aren’t any age limits on the initiative, so it’s ideal for those looking to return to study.

There are certain restrictions around where you can study, as not all training institutions are included in the initiative. The good news is that ITC is an affiliated provider, so courses – even if you choose Study From Home – are part of the initiative.

Keep in mind that Fees Free also only applies to Level 3 study and above, which is essentially any post-secondary school programme.

You can learn more about the Fees Free eligibility criteria on the official website here.

Study From Home with the Fees Free initiative

There are numerous courses available with ITC via Study From Home that you can take for free.

These include:

 

All of these courses are Level 3 or above, meaning they are all eligible for the Fees Free initiative. Importantly, they all also offer important skills and knowledge for students looking to find careers in the travel, tourism, and aviation industries.

If you do find that you are not eligible to apply for the Fees Free initiative, keep in mind that you can still study with us. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is more than happy to help you apply for a StudyLink loan that can lend you the funds to take the course of your choosing and invest in your future.

What our Study From Home tutors think of the Fees Free initiative

We asked Lynelle Panton, one of our wonderful Study From Home tutors, what she thought about the initiative and how it helps distance learning students.

“Many people would love to study, but for various reasons such as family commitments or work, they simply can’t. Study From Home allows these people who can’t attend on-campus courses the ability to achieve their goals of furthering their education in an industry they are passionate about. We have now been able to tie this in with Fees Free to allow students to gain their qualification and start out in their chosen career without having a huge debt behind them.”

“This is such a huge opportunity for anyone who wants to study but couldn’t,” she explained.

How to apply for Fees Free study

Applying for Fees Free study is a simple process.

All you need to do is first check that you are eligible for the initiative by visiting the Fees Free website and entering your National Student Number (NSN). This will immediately tell you whether or not you are eligible.

If you are eligible, you simply apply to Study From Home as you would normally (by getting in touch!), and the Tertiary Education Commission will let us know that your fees will be covered, and will pay us directly for the course.

Should you have any questions at all, or if you have checked your eligibility and are ready to apply for an exciting distance learning course from Study From Home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

Study From Home – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.studyfromhome.co.nz/contact-us/

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Study From Home success: We speak to one of the first students completing the level 5 Diploma in Tourism & Travel online

Posted on 28/10/2020 by

Marise Barrett is one of the first students to complete the level 5 Diploma in Tourism & Travel online.

Study From Home recently started offering the New Zealand Diploma in Tourism and Travel at level 5 on our popular Study From Home platform. It is an intensive one-year diploma that offers students the skills and knowledge they need for a general management career in the industry.

While students of ITC have been able to study this diploma for more than 15 years, it is new to Study From Home, and we have been keeping a close eye on the first group of students to work their way through this fast-paced and challenging course.

One of those students is Marise Barrett, who is currently working her way through the diploma. She has already completed the New Zealand Certificate in Tourism (Level 3) and the New Zealand Certificate in Travel (Level 4), and already has experience working in the industry.

We recently spoke to her to see how she was finding the diploma and the experience of studying from home. (more…)

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Five tips for studying in cafes

Posted on 21/02/2018 by

Studying from a cafe is a great way to beat cabin fever, especially in the winter months.

One of the best things about studying tourism with ITC Study From Home is that you can study anywhere, anytime. And that includes your favourite cafes!

However, studying in cafes can be counter-productive – especially if you spend more time people-watching than you do working on your assignments.

But never fear, we have five tips to help you make the most of your cafe study sessions.

1. Aim for a power hour

Let’s be honest, most cafe owners don’t want you to be sitting in their cafe for five hours nursing one cold coffee. To avoid overstaying your welcome – or spending too much money on food – try to keep your cafe study sessions short and sweet.

Aim for a super productive ‘power hour’. Set aside 60 minutes to work on your assignment and then either move on or order something else off the menu to keep your cafe hosts happy.

2. Find a quiet table in the corner

Set yourself up away from the action so you can hear yourself think – and so you don’t take up a valuable table for six people.

You’ll still feel part of the action but you won’t be too distracted.

Bonus tip: try to avoid sitting right next to the coffee machine (unless you love working in loud spaces!)

3. Make sure the internet connection is fast and reliable

If you need to access the ITC Study From Home forums or Moodle site, then make sure the cafe has a reliable internet connection.

Keep an eye out for cafes with power points, too!

4. Pack a study bag

The last thing you want is to arrive at a cafe without your notes, laptop, pens or something else essential.

Make sure you pack a study bag before you go. Write a list of everything you need so you don’t forget anything important.

5. Choose somewhere local

If possible, choose a cafe that’s within 15 minutes of your front door – or less. If you spend too long getting to the cafe, you’ll cut into valuable study time.

The point of studying in cafes is to mix up your environment and be more productive. If you find that studying in cafes has the opposite effect, then it might be a good idea to stay home instead.

Would you like the flexibility and freedom to study in cafes? Study tourism with ITC Study From Home! We’re accepting applications now – contact us today to learn more.

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Five reasons to study from home in Auckland

Posted on 21/06/2017 by

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.

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Online communication tips for distance learners

Posted on 03/08/2016 by
When you study from home, most of your communication with classmates and tutors will be done online. Read on for some tips on how to communicate effectively via email and forums.

When you study from home, most of your communication with classmates and tutors will be done online. Read on for some tips on how to communicate effectively via email and forums.

What do long distance relationships and studying from home have in common? The importance of communication.

Anyone who’s in a long distance relationship will know that communication is key. It’s hard to keep the love alive if you’re not regularly communicating with your partner.

The same ‘rule’ applies to distance learning. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to communicate with others, no matter how many miles keep you apart (thank you internet).

When you study from home, you’ll spend a lot of time chatting with tutors and classmates via email and online forums. Below we’ve outlined a few tips to help you navigate the world of online communication with ease.

1. Keep it real

The first thing to remember when communicating online is that you’re chatting to real people with real feelings! Your online classmates are just like you. Make sure you communicate with the same level of respect and compassion as you would in a classroom environment.

2. Keep it clean

Take care not to swear, make insensitive jokes, or use too much slang. You don’t have to be completely formal – the use of some ‘text language’ is okay within reason – but try to remember that not everyone will understand what you mean. Where possible, use polite and friendly language, and avoid making jokes that some people could find offensive.

3. Keep it concise

Try to communicate in a clear, concise manner so you don’t overwhelm your classmates with long messages. If your note is more than a few sentences, use paragraphs and subheadings to break up the text for easy reading.

4.Keep it appropriate

Online forums are for study purposes, so don’t use this tool to have private conversations or share inappropriate content. We understand that some conversations will naturally veer away from study, but try to stick to the topic at-hand where possible.

5. Keep it friendly

If you take one thing away from this article, make it this. As long as you communicate in a nice, friendly manner you can’t go too far wrong! Treat other people as you would like to be treated, and you’ll find that the world of online communication can be a warm and welcoming place.

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Are you ready to study from home?

Posted on 06/07/2016 by
Follow our simple checklist to figure out if you're ready to study from home.

Follow our simple checklist to figure out if you’re ready to study from home.

Studying from home is a big commitment, so it’s a good idea to wait until you’re ready to fully immerse yourself in the learning experience. Rushing into study could cause stress and compromise your success – it’s best to be as prepared as possible.

So, how will you know when you’re ready?

We’ve compiled a checklist of things you should do before you enrol on a distance learning course. These steps will help you prepare for student life.

Please note, this checklist is intended as a guide only. If you have any questions about any of our courses, please contact us.

1. Talk to friends and family

Tell your loved ones that you’re thinking about studying from home. They might have some valuable advice for you, or even offer to help out from time to time. Studying is much easier with the support of your friends and family.

2. Speak with an ITC Study From Home tutor

You probably have lots of questions about studying from home. The best people to ask are the ITC Study From Home tutors. They will be able to help you figure out which course is right for you. Call 0800 788 394 to request to speak with a tutor.

3. Decide whether to study part-time or full-time

We offer two study options for distance learning – part-time or full-time. Part-time courses take on average 40 weeks to complete, and you must do a minimum of 10-15 hours study each week. Full-time courses are 20 weeks on average, and require a minimum of 20-25 hours of study each week. Figure out which option will suit you best.

4. Create a draft study plan

The best way to see whether you have the time to study from home is to create a draft study plan. Follow the steps in this helpful guide to see if you have enough ‘study hours’ each week. Sometimes we don’t know how much spare time we actually have until we see it on paper.

5. Write down what you would be prepared to give up in order to study

One of the hardest things about study is that it often requires you to make some short-term sacrifices. What would you give up for six months or a year in order to achieve your qualification? Write a list of things that you could “live without”. Some examples include television, going out on the weekends, and spending time on social media. You probably won’t have to give these up completely, but you may have to go without them for a week or two during busy times.

Being aware of these sacrifices before you start your course ensures you’re not in for any surprises. We promise all your favourite TV shows will be waiting for you once you’ve achieved your qualification!

We hope this checklist has helped you figure out if you’re ready to Study From Home. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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How to make studying from home fun

Posted on 06/04/2016 by
Struggling to find the motivation to study from home? See our three tips below to help find the fun in learning.

Struggling to find the motivation to study from home? Read our three tips to help find the fun in learning.

We share a lot of study tips on this blog. From the best snacks to eat to stay focused, to how to study in summer when the beach is calling your name, we’re dedicated to helping you ace your travel and tourism assignments.

But all of our tips might be worthless if you don’t find any enjoyment in studying. Sure, there’s no avoiding some tedious tasks, but there are ways you can learn to love learning – you just need to think outside of the box.

Here are three tips to help make studying from home fun, so that it becomes less of a chore and more of a passion.

use colour to make study fun

1. Invest in fun stationery

Studying is the perfect excuse to buy cute stationery (as if you needed another one!). Swap boring plain lined paper for a sketch pad, journal or even a whiteboard – whatever works for you. Also, try to use plenty of colour. Think bright felt tip pens and post-it notes. The aim of this is to help get your creative juices flowing. Not only will this make studying more fun, it’ll also encourage you to think creatively about what you’re learning.

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2. Find real-world examples

Many people find study boring because they can’t connect what they’re learning on paper to what happens in the real world. Where possible, look for ways to experience what you’re learning first-hand. For example, if you are learning about what it’s like to work at the airport, why not visit your nearest airport for lunch and observe your surroundings? Or if you are learning about customer service, see if you can do some work experience at a local tourism operator.

the aural learner

3. Create a study playlist

Some people find music distracting when studying – if this is you, move right along to the next tip. But if you love bopping along to the beat while you learn, turn up the tunes and enjoy! Create a new study playlist every week as motivation to hit the books. Songs without words are best as they aren’t so distracting, but listen to whatever works for you.

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Five reasons why it’s never too late to start studying

Posted on 10/02/2016 by
Don't let time pass you by. It's never too late to start studying towards your dream career.

Don’t let time pass you by. It’s never too late to start studying towards your dream career.

“People are capable, at any time in their lives, of doing what they dream of.” – Paulo Coelho

Today, many young people are encouraged to pursue higher education once they finish secondary school – but this wasn’t always the case. Earlier generations often embarked on a different path in life, such as going straight into the workforce or having children. They may have sacrificed studying in order to follow a different dream.

If this sounds like you, you may sometimes find yourself wondering what life would have been like if you had chosen to study your passion. Well, maybe it’s time to stop wondering and give further education a try. Thanks to distance learning, it’s now easier than ever to make studying part of your life.

Here are five reasons why it’s never too late to start studying.

1. Life experience will make you a better student

Some mature students worry they won’t be able to keep up with their younger counterparts. In fact, the opposite is often true! Your life experience will likely give you an edge over other students. You’ll be able to bring real-world experience to the table, and may even act as a mentor or role model.

2. You might have more financial stability

Those who start studying later in life can often afford to pay for some of their courses upfront, hereby reducing financial pressure. Although pursuing a new career path is always daunting, you’ll have peace of mind that you have other experience and jobs to fall back on if needed.

3. There are many flexible study options available

Education has adapted to the digital world, meaning you can now study many courses from home, in your own time, at your own pace! This provides you with the freedom to juggle several commitments, such as part-time work and childcare. Study From Home graduate Rebekah Linton has some great tips for balancing work and study.

4. You’ll be a role model for your children

If you have children, you might be worried that returning to study will leave them feeling neglected. In reality, they will probably admire your motivation. You’ll lead by example and show them it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Who knows, you might even inspire them to study too! This happened to one Study From Home graduate; mum Robyn Hicks studied travel and tourism and now both of her daughters are following in her footsteps.

5. Personal fulfilment will make you happier

There’s nothing quite as wonderful as the sense of achievement you feel when you graduate. Studying is not easy; it takes a lot of hard work and commitment. But the light at the end of the tunnel is increased personal fulfilment and overall happiness. You’ll never regret taking steps to follow your dreams.

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

Posted on 03/02/2016 by
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.

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.

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Earn while you study: part-time job ideas for distance learning students

Posted on 27/01/2016 by
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A part-time job can provide you with valuable experience and some extra cash while you study. Even better if it’s within biking distance of your home!

Would you like to earn some money while you study? Getting a part-time job can be an excellent way to boost your bank account and gain some valuable work experience.

As long as your job doesn’t interfere with your studies (achieving your travel and tourism qualification should always come first), working is a great opportunity to meet new friends, improve your self-confidence and add some skills to your CV.

Below are some job ideas that could fit perfectly with your distance learning lifestyle.

CASUAL JOB IDEAS FOR STUDENTS

Although it can be irregular, casual work suits many students because it’s so flexible – you can often make it fit around your studies, and reduce the number of hours you work when you’ve got large assignments.

Mystery shopper

As a mystery shopper, it’s your job to pose as a regular customer in a store and then rate your experience afterwards. You’ll provide detailed feedback about your shopping experience, which the company can then use to improve customer service moving forward. There are several mystery shopping businesses in New Zealand – a quick Google search will bring up several possibilities.

Babysitting

If you’re responsible, reliable and great with kids then you could find work as a babysitter in your local community. Babysitting hours often fall in the evening or on weekends, freeing up plenty of time for you to study throughout the week. You can also get some study done when the kids go to bed.

Dog walking

Many dog owners lead busy lifestyles and don’t have time to walk their pups. You could make their lives easier by offering to walk and play with their dogs a few times a week. This is a great way to keep fit, get outside and make some furry friends!

Gardening and DIY

If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty and consider yourself a bit of a DIYer, you might find some casual gardening or household work with friends or family. From mowing lawns to helping out in the garden, there’s endless opportunities to lend a hand.

PART-TIME JOB IDEAS FOR STUDENTS

Having set hours each week can make managing your finances much easier, especially if you have to pay rent and make regular bill payments. Here are some part-time jobs that suit students.

Office assistant

If you have great admin skills, a warm personality and a motivation to learn, you could make a great office assistant for a local company. It would be best if you could work in a travel or tourism business, as this would be a chance to learn the ropes and get involved in the industry. Perhaps you could drop your CV into local companies and offer to come in for a few days of work experience to see how you go.

Retail work

Love shopping? Great with people? You could work part-time as a retail assistant in a clothes store, gift shop or alike. These jobs will teach you how to deliver excellent customer service, as well as important cash-handling and stock management skills – all valuable experience for the tourism industry.

Supermarket assistant

Working at your local supermarket is a good introduction to the world of customer service, plus you could get to know some of your community. This is a great place to start if you don’t have any work experience and are looking to build up your CV.

Café assistant

The hospitality and tourism sector are closely linked. If you love the buzz of working in a cafe, chances are you’ll love the fast-paced tourism industry. Gaining some experience in a restaurant, hotel or food chain will likely help you get a foot in the door in a travel or tourism role once you’ve graduated.

Do you have a part-time job?

Are you juggling part-time work and part-time study? Do you have any advice to share with our community? Comment below with your experience!

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A family affair: ITC graduate inspires daughters to study tourism

Posted on 09/12/2015 by
Robyn Hicks and her daughters Chelsea and Katharine have all studied tourism with ITC via distance learning.

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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The top three benefits of distance learning

Posted on 20/05/2015 by
One of the best things about distance learning is the ability to study from anywhere. Study from home one day, work in a cafe the next - the choice is yours.

One of the best things about distance learning is the ability to study from anywhere. Study from home one day, work in a cafe the next – the choice is yours.

What makes distance learning such a great choice? Here are the top three benefits of studying from home.

1. Flexibility

Don’t want to come to class every day? More of a night owl than a morning person? Wish you could just write your assignments at home in your pajamas? Distance learning offers this level of flexibility, allowing you to choose when you want to study, and where.

As long as you put in the required number of hours of study per week, you are free to manage your time as you see fit. And if that means working from the comfort of your couch next to your cat, who are we to judge?

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Five myths about distance learning (and why you should ignore them)

Posted on 29/04/2015 by
Sorry to disappoint, but there's more to distance learning than studying in your pajamas with your cat. We bust some common distance learning myths

Sorry to disappoint, but there’s more to distance learning than studying in your pajamas with your cat (although this is a great bonus!) Photo credit: Luke Redmond // Flickr Creative Commons

Thinking about studying from home? A quick Google search of ‘distance learning’ will provide you with plenty of information about this study option, but there may be a few myths lurking among the helpful advice.

We’re here to help clarify any confusion. Here are five common myths about distance learning (and why you should ignore them).

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Is studying from home right for you?

Posted on 26/02/2015 by
ITC's Study From Home option suits many people from different circumstances. Read on to find out if it could be an option for you

ITC’s Study From Home option suits many people from different circumstances. Read on to find out if it could be an option for you

Studying from home, otherwise known as online learning or distance learning, is an excellent option for people who want a great qualification but cannot attend regular on-campus classes.

At the International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC), we offer the option to study four excellent courses from home. That means you can gain an airline, travel and tourism qualification from anywhere in New Zealand!

Are you thinking about studying from home, but are unsure if this is the right decision for you?

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ITC Launches Online

Posted on 14/01/2015 by
ITC now offers a range of online courses

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.

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

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ITC Graduate Fulfils a Dream

Posted on 24/07/2014 by
Crystal (far right) now working for an airline, thanks to ITC and the training she had via her Distance Learning course.

Crystal (far right) now working for an airline, thanks to ITC and the training she had via her Distance Learning course.

Crystal Coates completed ITC’s National Certificate in Tourism Core Skills (level 3) in 2013. Immediately afterwards, she enrolled in our level 3 Aviation course. Crystal decided to study through ITC’s Distance Learning, as she was employed full time as a retail store manager. She proved to be an outstanding student.

In March 2014, Crystal had the opportunity to join the training programme with Jetstar.

“Ground school was quite intense, so much to take in in such a short time. Exams… oh my goodness! But I passed them all and the practicals as well” says Crystal.

Being offered a job as a flight attendant with Jetstar was a dream come true.

“I’m loving it! The crew have all been welcoming and helpful. The hours at first were a little tough, but I’m getting used to them now; waking up at 3-4am is the norm. I’ve set an early preference so I can be home with my family in the afternoon and evening. It has definitely been very different to anything I’ve done but that has been great.”

Auckland-based crew at Jetstar fly domestically and trans-Tasman, which means Crystal has flown to Christchurch, Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin, Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

“I hope to be sent to Christchurch one day to work a Fiji flight,” she says.

Jetstar’s crew is made up people of all ages. “Many different cultures as well which is nice,” says Crystal.

Crystal is thrilled she started on this new career path with ITC and says she only wished she had given it a go earlier.

“I’m so glad I’ve finally fulfilled a dream to become a flight attendant. Thank you for the support and encouragement while I was studying with ITC!”

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Getting career confidence back with ITC

Posted on 20/02/2014 by
Study From Home workshop

Study From Home students participate in a face-to-face workshop

Every year many students complete one of ITC’s distance online learning (DOL) courses for the travel, tourism and aviation industries. Gaining the confidence to get out and apply for jobs can be tough, so we make career preparation an important focus of the course.

More than half of our DOL students study from home because they are looking after young children. After a few years staying at home, many lose confidence in their employment prospects.

DOL graduate Lynda says, “I felt like I had had so much time off that I had become a recluse and didn’t know how to be in the public eye anymore or approach customers with confidence. I even thought I would forget everything I had learnt in previous employment.”

Another graduate Margaret adds: “I didn’t apply for a job for months after completing my course, as I thought they would decline my application as I had not been in the work force for so long.”

Many parents want to take care of their child at home. But DOL graduate Hazel found that getting out there had a positive impact on both her and her child. “Getting a job meant I could earn much more money to support myself and my child, while also gaining a social life outside of our house. I think many single mothers don’t want to send their child to childcare so soon. It seems hard at first but you and your child will adapt,” she says.

Lynda says that the ITC course helped her a great deal. “Training with ITC contributed a lot to gaining my confidence back. Having the phone assessments and orientation, and even graduation, and being amongst other people was a boost. With anticipation I wanted to get back into the work force and show off some recapped skills,” she says.

Lynda is also an advocate of gaining work experience while you study and says that having a part-time, casual job gave her a big confidence boost.

Margaret found that getting out there and applying for jobs was a useful learning experience in itself. “I wasn’t successful in my first application. I didn’t let that get me down: I used it as a learning curve. I took out my ITC notes on career preparation to make sure I was ready. For my next application, I knew exactly what I was going to say to any question asked, and was able to reply back in full confidence.”

Margaret now works for the call centre at Qantas Airways, Lynda is working for Flight Centre in Perth (WA) and Hazel works at Auckland Airport for Menzies Aviation.

As Margaret says: “Don’t let fear get in the way of your dreams. If you prepare for your interview, all will fall into place and your dreams will come true!”

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Are you ready to fly high?

Posted on 19/11/2013 by
ITC distance learning students attending workshops, helping them achieve their goals

ITC distance learning students attending workshops, helping them achieve their goals

The International Travel College of New Zealand (ITC) offers travel, tourism, and airline courses, and we work hard to get our graduates jobs in those industries. We want them all to fly high with their career, life and goals!

ITC offers its courses on campus and by distance online learning. If you are at home with young children, live too far from a campus, or you work and cannot attend daily classes, then distance online learning would be an ideal option for you.

These courses include all the learning resources, tutorial support, online communication and assessments you will need. You will be part of a class with fellow distance learning students from all around the country.

There are only two workshops to attend: Orientation Day, where you will get to meet your classmates, and the Customer Service workshop later in the course. Both workshops are at our Auckland campuses. This is what one of our graduates has to say about studying with ITC: “I want to say thank you to ITC for helping me get to my dream job.  Doing the ITC course has really paid off and now I wake up every morning excited about going to work. Words cannot express my gratitude.”

ITC has been a premium supplier in the airline, airport and travel and tourism industries for over 16 years. The college has strong connections in those industries and focuses on making its training relevant to employers. We also offer a job placement service to assist you in finding a job in travel, tourism or aviation!

Find out how you can launch your career by phoning the ITC team now on 0800 868 747, or check our website www.itc.co.nz and enquiry online.

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ITC to offer Aviation Course via Distance Learning

Posted on 20/05/2013 by
ITC launches Aviation 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.

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