A VALE college student admits his first-ever trip abroad has taught him a lot about 'travelling and airports' as he returns home from a college excursion.

Stuart Beck from Alexandria was involved with West College Scotland's recent visit to Cyprus as part of an exchange programme involving motor vehicle students.

The Clydebank-based learners spent 15 days touring and studying in Limassol as part of the UK Government’s new Turing Scheme, aimed at providing international opportunities in education.

Previously, our sister title the Clydebank Post reported the visit of 17 Cypriot students from the Technical School of Limassol to the West Dunbartonshire town, as they took in experiences such as a visit to local car dealerships to learn about electric and hybrid vehicles.

And Stuart, 25, admits the return trip to Cyprus was just as enlighting for him and his fellow students.

Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter: Stuart received a ‘first-flight’ certificate from airline Jet2Stuart received a ‘first-flight’ certificate from airline Jet2 (Image: Supplied)

He told the Reporter: "This trip was my very first time flying so I learned a lot just about travelling and airports on top of everything else."

The trip abroad took place in May and consisted of a group made up of 12 students and two staff from the motor vehicle department.

The students also undertook a variety of cultural visits including the motor museum, a boat show, a boat yard and an open house at a Porsche Dealership.

Shelby Dowall, 20, from Clydebank, said: "‘It was a great experience to visit another country and see how things compare to our course here at Clydebank."

The college is hoping to receive additional funding in the future so more students can enjoy the amazing experiences provided by the programmes.