Helping local students find tourism jobs in Southwark

With 50 attractions, as well as galleries and hotels Southwark has a wealth of tourism products and offers a large concentration of unique attractions, making it one of London's hottest areas.

Colleges included London South Bank University, Southwark College, University of the Arts, Lambeth College, Westminster & Kingsway, St Francis Xavier and St Saviour's and St Olave's School.

"The aim of the fair was primarily to bring students, colleges and employers together and is part of Southwark Council's drive to improve quality and support employment in the industry," said Cllr Colomba Blango, Southwark's executive member for tourism.

"The event also helped local tourism students gain work experience in the tourism industry and put them in touch with an array of tourism providers based in Southwark."

Students met employers from 34 different companies involved in the tourism, leisure, hospitality and travel industries in the local area, predominantly from Southwark. They included British Airways London Eye, Southwark Tour Guides, London City Airport and Wetherspoons.

Students attended an interview with their chosen employer on the day and 21 of them won a paid work placement for 2 weeks in July. Jobs include Marketing Assistant at Visit London (London's official marketing organisation, based at More London), dungeon keeper at the London Dungeon and front of house at Southwark Playhouse.

Southwark Council's Tourism Unit has been working with London South Bank University, Southwark's Education and Business Alliance, Springboard UK and Cross River Partnership on this project.