Work Based Learning

Work-Based Learning (WBL) at the Institute of Tourism Studies

The Work-Based Learning (WBL) module is a core component of all full-time programmes at the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS Malta). It bridges classroom learning with real industry practice, giving students structured exposure to professional hospitality and tourism environments while preparing them for future employment.

Successful completion of WBL is mandatory and carries academic credit.

Through WBL, students gain:

• Academic credit and recognised industry experience
• A basic salary in line with regulations
• Practical application of technical and operational skills
• Exposure to professional standards and workplace culture
• Personal growth and professional development
• Expanded social and professional networks
• Stronger employability and CV development

WBL Placement Requirements

Placement duration depends on programme level:

Foundation (MQF/EQF Level 2) & Certificate (MQF/EQF Level 3)

• 14-week full-time placement
• Starting in June

Diploma (MQF/EQF Level 4)

• One-year full-time placement
• Starting in June/July

Undergraduate Diploma (Level 5) & Bachelor’s Degree (Level 6)

• 14-week full-time placement
• Starting in June

Most ITS students already have prior work exposure within Malta’s hospitality sector before commencing their placement.

Priority Placement Areas

(progressing from operative exposure to supervisory and management insight)

• Food Production and Preparation (Kitchen, Pastry, Bakery)
• Food and Beverage Service (Restaurant, Bar, Room Service, Conference & Banqueting)
• Events Operations and Coordination
• Front Office Operations (Reception, Guest Relations, Reservations)
• Housekeeping and Rooms Division Operations
• Travel and Tourism Operations (Tour Operations, Travel Agencies, Visitor Services)
• Wellness and Spa Operations
• Sales and Marketing in Hospitality and Tourism
• Human Resources and Training Support
• Administrative and Management Support Roles within hospitality and tourism establishments

Partner Organisation Requirements

ITS collaborates with establishments that provide a structured, professional, and supportive learning environment. Partner organisations are expected to:

• Provide a formal work contract outlining duties, hours, remuneration, and leave entitlements
• Offer remuneration not less than the national minimum wage and in line with local regulations
• Comply fully with employment legislation, including registration and work permits where applicable
• Provide statutory entitlements (pro-rata leave, bonuses, insurance, social security contributions)
• Assign duties aligned with the student’s programme of study and ITS curriculum
• Appoint a workplace supervisor to liaise with the ITS Mentor
• Provide structured feedback and complete the ITS WBL Logbook
• Issue weekly duty rosters in advance and communicate changes appropriately

Partners are also encouraged to:

• Assist with accommodation guidance for international placements
• Conduct performance appraisals (three for one-year placements, one for 14-week placements)
• Provide a reference letter upon completion

Why recruit from ITS?

Benefits of partnering with ITS Malta

• Access to students trained in modern hospitality and tourism practices
• A diverse talent pool spanning culinary arts, hotel operations, events, and tourism
• Streamlined recruitment with direct institutional support
• Ongoing assistance from the ITS Work-Based Learning Department
• Opportunities to build long-term partnerships with Malta’s leading hospitality institution

Collaboration and Contact

ITS Malta welcomes collaboration with hospitality and tourism organisations worldwide to provide meaningful and professional WBL opportunities.

For further information:

• Email: workbasedlearning@its.edu.mt
• Phone: +356 2379 3100

Join leading hospitality organisations worldwide who trust ITS Malta students to contribute professionally and deliver excellence.