Now in its fourth year, ‘Visitor Economy Week’ runs from February 4-7, offering pupils taster sessions covering hospitality, retail, tourism and travel

Students and residents across the Liverpool city region are this week sampling for themselves what life would be like working in the tourism industry.

Now in its fourth year, ‘Visitor Economy Week’ runs from February 4-7, offering pupils taster sessions covering hospitality, retail, tourism and travel. During the week there are over 50 events being run by the further education colleges in the LCR.

For the first time this year at the launch there was a VE Skills Show at Anfield. Attendees met local employers, apprenticeship providers, plus college and secondary heads.  

During the launch City & Guilds announced the latest innovation in skills development – a Global Certification for the hospitality industry, with the Liverpool city region being the pilot for this new benchmark.

It is designed to help hospitality businesses recognise the skills and experience of their staff and help employees gain recognition and clear employment opportunities.

The Liverpool Hoteliers Association (LHA), one of the sponsors of Visitor Economy Week, are also supporting the City & Guilds initiative. LHA are a membership group of Liverpool City Region hoteliers and restaurateurs – they work collectively to deliver a first-class hospitality experience for all visitors including developing skills and working closely with colleges and universities. Other sponsors are the LCR Apprenticeship Hub, The Know Group and Liverpool Football Club.

The events over the week are at venues including Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Albert Dock and the Radio City Tower alongside several hotels and restaurants.