The Tourism Society has voiced dismay at reports that education secretary Michael Gove is considering a cull of perceived soft GCSE subjects such as tourism.
Chairman Sandra Matthews-Marsh said: “Tourism is one of Britain’s most successful industries, generating billions of pounds to the economy annually. Furthermore, it offers employment opportunities for young people seeking a career in a sector that provides potential for real growth and development.
“Over 7,000 students are taking GCSE Leisure & Tourism this summer and employers in the industry regard the qualification as a plus when considering job applications.”
Speaking at the the Tourism Symposium at the International Festival for Business in Liverpool, she added: “The Tourism Society urges Michael Gove to consider these factors when reviewing the situation with exams watchdog OFQUAL.”
A Tourism Society Think Tank paper on arts and culture tourism growth will be revealed tomorrow (Tuesday).