A record number of Newcastle College students are learning valuable new skills at Newcastle Airport to help kickstart their careers in the aviation industry.
A total of 92 students from the College’s Aviation Academy are taking part in the Ambassador Programme this year, delivered in partnership with the multi-award winning Airport.
It offers young people the opportunity to develop essential industry skills and gain valuable hands-on experience while working across a range of Airport departments, including security, passenger services and business development.
Participation in the scheme has almost doubled compared with last year, when almost 50% of students went on to secure employment at the Airport or with its business partners.
Jay Hudspith, 17, who has been working with the security team, said: “It’s really exciting working in the security search area and helping passengers every day. The Ambassador Programme has given me the chance to get some real-life experience and develop new skills with the support of the fantastic teams at the Airport.”
Millie McDermott, 17, who has been working in passenger services, added: “I’ve really enjoyed meeting passengers and making sure they have safe and smooth journeys through the Airport. I hope to become cabin crew in the future and this experience is giving me a great insight into what it’s like to work in the industry.”
Alice Andreasen, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Newcastle Airport and Newcastle College Board member, said: “Newcastle Airport is proud of its long-standing partnership with Newcastle College and we are delighted to welcome a record number of their students to the Airport this year through the Ambassador Programme.
“The students play an essential role in helping us deliver a world-class experience for our passengers and it is inspiring to see them grow and develop while working alongside our teams, with many going on to secure employment at the Airport or with our business partners.”
Karen Trenerry, Level 3 Year 2 Programme Lead at Newcastle College, said: “The Ambassador role at Newcastle Airport is a powerful learning experience for our Aviation students, helping them develop vital workplace and personal skills in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
“Through real-world engagement, they develop confidence and professionalism to further their understanding of the aviation industry with skills that support a smooth and successful transition into employment.
“Many go on to secure roles within the Airport itself or with its business partners, continuing their journey in the industry. As lecturers, we feel immense pride walking through the Airport and seeing our former students excelling in a variety of roles, a true testament to the value of this unique opportunity.”
The Ambassador Programme is open to students studying at the College’s Aviation Academy - a specialist teaching facility based just off the Airport’s runway.
The award-winning Academy offers a range of courses for aspiring aviation professionals, including aeronautical engineering, aviation operations and cabin crew training. Its state-of-the-art training facilities include a 1,500m² hangar housing real aircraft, where students can train alongside industry professionals.
For more information about the Academy and its courses, visit www.ncl-coll.ac.uk.