VisitAberdeenshire launches ‘Know Your Destination’ online training modules for frontline tourism staff

VisitAberdeenshire has launched a suite of five online training modules designed to help frontline tourism and hospitality staff enhance their knowledge of the region and improve the visitor experience. 

‘Know Your Destination’ modules are free to use and can be completed at the learners’ own pace and in any order. 

A module on Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire provides an introductory overview of the destination. A module on Food and Drink, funded by Opportunity North East (ONE) with support from the Scottish Government’s North East Economic Recovery and Skills Fund (NEERSF), tells the region’s food and drink story and focuses on provenance and local produce. 

Two modules on Adventure Tourism, also funded by ONE with support from NEERSF, support the North East Adventure Tourism project, and provide information on the range of adventure experiences in the region. 

A fifth module, in partnership with and funded by NatureScot, is called Great Outdoors in the City, and highlights the availability of outdoor experiences in Aberdeen. 

Each of the modules was developed following four focus groups earlier in the year, made up of representatives from a variety of tourism businesses from across the North-east. The content and format of the modules was designed based on their feedback and refined following extensive testing. The modules are supplemented by “notice boards” which provide additional information and useful links. 

Chris Foy, Chief Executive of VisitAberdeenshire said: “These modules are intended to help tourism and hospitality staff better understand the regional tourism offer and help visitors get the most from their stay by answering questions like “what can we do today?” more effectively. This in turn impacts positively on the visitor experience and can lead to an increased length of stay or spend in the destination.” 

Jennifer Craw, Chief Executive of ONE, said: “Food tourism and adventure tourism are priority growth markets. ONE supported the development of these training modules to ensure frontline hospitality staff can share knowledge and connect visitors to the experiences available across Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen, whether that’s outstanding food and drink at source or adventure sports in our magnificent natural environment.” 

Simon Brooks, Strategic Planning Manager with NatureScot said: “As well as its vibrant cultural attractions, the City of Aberdeen has some wonderful natural attractions to offer visitors.  Within easy reach of the city centre, they provide lots of opportunities to get out and be refreshed by nature, and this training module will encourage more to do just that.”      

To sign up for access to the modules, visit https://industry.visitabdn.com/home/industry-events-and-training/online-training-modules/