College course clears runway to career success

A North East aviation training programme is helping more young people secure careers in the sector through a successful partnership between education and industry.

Thirty Newcastle College students have secured jobs at Newcastle Airport after completing the Ambassador Programme, delivered jointly by the airport and the College’s Aviation Academy.

Graduates have moved into a range of frontline roles, including security and passenger services, after gaining practical experience through placements across multiple airport departments while studying.

More than 40 per cent of students who have completed the programme have gone on to secure employment with Newcastle Airport and partner businesses, including Swissport and Jet2.

Among those is Erin Hope Thirlaway, 18, who has joined the Airport’s security team. 

She said: “The Ambassador Programme was fantastic. 

“Getting to work with the different teams and see first-hand what it’s like to work at the Airport really helped me develop my skills and stand out when it came to applying for the job.” 

Aidan Calder, 17, who now works in passenger services, added: “The programme was brilliant for developing my skills, especially in customer service. 

“I love talking to passengers and meeting new people and I’m really enjoying working in the team.” 

The Ambassador Programme is open to students at Newcastle College’s Aviation Academy, a specialist training facility located beside the airport’s runway.

The Academy offers courses in aeronautical engineering, aviation operations and cabin crew training, with students benefiting from industry-standard facilities including a 1,500m² hangar housing real aircraft.

Karen Trenerry, assistant head of curriculum for aviation at Newcastle College, said: “We are incredibly proud of the continued success of our Ambassador Programme this year.  

“With over 40 per cent of our current cohort progressing straight into employment with Newcastle Airport and key stakeholders such as Swissport and Jet2, the impact speaks for itself.

“This unique initiative, developed here at Newcastle College, is actively helping to close the aviation skills gap across the North East. 

“It’s a programme that not only supports our students into meaningful careers but also strengthens the future of the region’s aviation industry – and that is something we are truly proud of.” 

Alice Andreasen, chief corporate affairs officer at Newcastle Airport and Newcastle College Skills board member, added: “We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with Newcastle College and are delighted to welcome so many students into our teams.  

“The Ambassador Programme is a fantastic example of how education institutions and major employers can work together to create real opportunities for young people. 

“It’s inspiring to see the students grow in confidence and develop their skills while working alongside our teams. 

“The programme creates a clear pathway into the industry and we look forward to supporting them as they progress in their careers.” 

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.