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Enabling Global Experiences Through the Turing Scheme
Through the Turing Scheme, schools, universities and colleges can apply for funding to give students the chance to take part in work placements and study-abroad programs across the world. We've recently worked with South Essex College on their Turing trips, providing a fully integrated service and guiding them from consultation to travel.
Consultation
From the outset, Diversity Study Trips (DST) established a collaborative approach with South Essex College, beginning with in-depth discovery sessions to understand the academic and pastoral needs of each cohort.
Working directly with course leaders and international coordinators, DST explored curriculum goals, budgetary considerations, and the aspirations of learners. This helped shape trip themes aligned with the Turing Scheme’s focus on widening participation and global skill development.
To further inspire future planning, DST invited Cheryl Plume, Head of School Building Services, on a familiarisation trip to South Korea, alongside other leads from Further Education and Higher Education institutions. The visit showcased the educational and cultural opportunities available, supporting future destination planning for Turing Scheme groups.
Trips were tailored for departments such as Hair & Beauty, Media Makeup, and Public Services, ensuring every experience delivered academic value and cultural enrichment.
Booking Process
DST’s sales and product teams worked closely with South Essex College to:
Provide comprehensive quotes tailored to Turing Scheme requirements.
Offer modular, flexible itineraries to accommodate a variety of academic disciplines.
Deliver transparent pricing with a focus on value for money—making international travel accessible for students from all backgrounds. We aim to quote in line with Turing funding for flights and ground arrangements, and price these separately for ease.
Ensure widening participation by supporting travel for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity.
Safety and quality were top priorities. DST verified all suppliers, carried out audits through an industry-leading consultancy, and offered group insurance for peace of mind. We manage this through our Safe Hands policy, with key details shared with relevant stakeholders throughout the planning process.
Pre-Travel & On-Trip Support
DST’s operations team provided seamless logistical support, both before and during the trip:
Pre-departure briefings and detailed travel documentation.
Web-based trip management tool and app to track and share live travel details with group leaders on trip and staff at the college
Help with visa and health requirements, as well as a comprehensive travel insurance policy
24/7 in-house emergency support, giving staff and students full reassurance throughout.
On the ground, our trusted and audited local partners delivered responsive, friendly support and ensured every itinerary was executed to a high standard.
"I’ve recently returned from a Turing trip with Diversity Study Trips, and they were amazing from start to finish. Everything exceeded expectations — I fully recommend them for any future trips you may have. If we get the next Turing bid, we’ll be returning to South Korea with Diversity. The itinerary was fantastic and the reps in Vietnam were brilliant — friendly, funny, and built a great relationship with the students. Honestly, I’d only use Diversity moving forward!"
— Cheryl Plume, Head of School – Building Services, South Essex College
Trips Delivered Under the Turing Scheme
Vietnam (Feb & Mar 2025)
Two student groups (44 students total) travelled to Ho Chi Minh City to complete volunteering and community engagement projects with local NGOs. The itinerary blended practical work with cultural immersion and workshops, helping students develop global citizenship and soft skills.
Japan (April 2024 & June 2025)
DST coordinated two trips to Japan for students in Hair & Beauty and Media Makeup. These smaller group experiences (10–12 students) included visits to Tokyo salons, cultural sites, and professional demonstrations. Students gained international industry insights while expanding their creative practices.
View Hair & Beauty Trip
View Media Makeup Trip
Looking Ahead
South Essex College is planning further group travel to Asia in Spring 2026, and DST is continuing to provide guidance on destinations, itineraries, and Turing Scheme alignment.
This growing partnership has already delivered impactful, safe, and life-changing experiences for students, and continues to demonstrate the power of inclusive international education.
If you would like to learn more about our student trips or the Turing Scheme, you can browse our example itineraries on our website or contact us today - our team would be happy to help.