From Monday 4th February, The City of Liverpool College will be hosting a range of events to support Liverpool City Region’s ‘Visitor Economy Week’, showcasing the variety of opportunities and diverse skills associated with a growing visitor economy sector.
According to the Local Government Association, the sector has high potential for growth, with the visitor economy predicted to grow 2.9 per cent over the next decade, which is more than the overall economy (2.5 per cent).
To support this, and now in its fourth year, Visitor Economy Week – running from 4-7 February – will this year involve over 50 events, which are all designed to encourage students to consider the visitor economy as a career choice and provide a taste of what life can be like working in hospitality, retail, tourism or travel.
The City of Liverpool College will host a number of events at its student-run restaurant, The Academy, to showcase the free courses that it offers, including an exclusive dinner with the head chef at Michelin starred The Gilpin and Gilpin Spice, in addition to events and masterclasses hosted by Liverpool-based venues such as the Titanic Hotel and The Pullman, providing classes on a range of skills including butchery, molecular gastronomy, artisan bread-making and wine tasting.
Founders of Cuban street food concept FINCA – previous alumni of The City of Liverpool College and stars of BBC2’s My Million Pound Menu – will also be hosting masterclasses during the week, showcasing how the college has supported them to thrive in the burgeoning industry.
Elaine Bowker, principal of The City of Liverpool College, said:
“The City Region’s visitor economy generates £4.1 billion and plays a vital part in the City Region’s economy, with massive potential and opportunity for the next generation. It is one of this country’s strongest performing sectors, but despite this, we know that careers in hospitality and tourism are traditionally not seen as desirable.
“At The City of Liverpool College, we understand first hand that there is a huge amount of talent in this city which, with the right support, has the potential to thrive in this thriving sector that is so important for our economy not just locally, but nationally.
“By working with the Liverpool LEP to host these inspiring events during Visitor Economy Week, we hope to raise the profile of the sector and, using our expertise, business connections and varied qualification offerings, enhance its perception as a progressive career choice.”
For more information and a schedule of all events taking place throughout the week, visit: www.visitoreconomyweek.com