SCU students get hands-on experience at Novotel Pacific Bay Resort

Southern Cross University and Novotel Pacific Bay Resort have joined forces to provide Coffs Harbour Tourism and Hospitality students with hands-on experience in the operation of a leading resort.

Students in SCU’s Bachelor of Hotel and Resort Management degree will this semester undertake two of their units at the National Marine Science Centre, which is adjacent to Novotel Pacific Bay Resort.

SCU Coffs Harbour Director of Studies Associate Professor Don Fuller said under the arrangement with Pacific Bay, resort managers and other key staff would provide guest lectures while students would be able to observe and undertake tasks in the resort.

“There are significant benefits for both organisations from a closer relationship in teaching and learning,” Dr Fuller said.

“Students in Coffs Harbour have the advantage that they are surrounded by some of the leading international resorts in Australia. It makes sound sense to utilise the opportunities for student involvement in the working operations of the resorts.

“We have a high intake of first-year students this year and they will be able to reap the benefits of the training facilities and resort experience from the start of their university education.”

Dr Fuller said a lot of the assignment work would be directly relevant to real-life resort challenges and questions.

“The students think it’s great that they will have the opportunity to be involved in hands-on work.”

Tony Perkins, Human Resources Manager of Novotel Pacific Bay Resort, said the management team was proud to contribute and assist students and build on an already strong relationship with Southern Cross University.

Photo opportunity: National Marine Science Centre, 12pm, Friday, March 4.