Trade References

Trade references should be UK-based organisations you currently work with, such as partners, suppliers or clients within the youth, student and educational travel sector.

Your references could include tour operators, accommodation providers, agents, or other sector partners.

As a membership association, references help us maintain the quality and credibility of the BETA network for all members.

References should ideally be UK-based organisations connected to the youth, student or educational travel sector, such as:

  • Tour operators
  • Accommodation providers (e.g. homestay, student residences, hotels)
  • Attractions, transport or ticketing partners
  • Educational or cultural partners
  • Agencies or service providers within the sector

A good reference is someone you have an active or recent working relationship with, who understands your business and the work you do together.

They don’t need to be senior, just someone who can confidently confirm your working relationship.

Once you’ve listed your references, BETA will contact them directly. We keep this simple and typically ask:

  • How long you have worked together
  • The type of work you do
  • Whether they would recommend you to others in the sector

You don’t need to obtain references yourself; simply provide:

  • Organisation name
  • Contact name
  • Contact email address

We’ll take care of the rest.

Once you submit your application:

  • We’ll contact your references directly
  • They’ll be asked to provide a short response
  • We’ll keep you updated as your application progresses

If you’re unsure whether a contact is suitable, feel free to include them; we’re happy to advise.

Still got questions, feel free to get in touch