Lecturer and Alumna Support Festive Journeys for Children’s Charity

A lecturer and former learner of Loughborough College have been part of a national charity, making memories for seriously ill children over the Christmas season.

Lecturer Emily Napier and former learner Lea Wright were both selected by international travel and tourism company Tui to accompany When You Wish Upon a Star, a national charity that organises special trips and events to Lapland for children and young people with life threatening illnesses.

Emily, who works part time as cabin crew alongside her role at College shared, “To have been part of this initiative is an incredible honour. When You Wish Upon a Star do amazing work to make happy and treasured memories for the children and families affected by serious illness.

“It’s great to work with Loughborough College to be able to share my passion for Travel and Tourism with our learners.”

Working alongside Emily as part of the cabin crew flying to Lapland was former student Lea Wright, who gained her Level 3 Airline and Leisure Tour Operating Services (ALTO) qualification at College in 2014.

When You Wish Upon a Star has been running annual visits for seriously ill children and their families to Lapland for thirty years, allowing children the opportunity to visit Rudolph, go sledding, and visit Santa in his workshop.

Also representing for Loughborough College was sporting superstar and College alumna, Jill Scott, who described the experience on social media as ‘magical’.

Curriculum Manager for Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism Darren Creed was thrilled to hear about Emily’s selection, adding, “Emily is an asset to the Travel and Tourism team, is so up to date on her subject knowledge, and is an excellent asset for our learners.

“She is so dedicated and professional, and her passion for sharing her knowledge to the next generation of travel professionals is clear to see. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s no surprise she was selected for this extraordinary opportunity.”