Aviation Generation: The Sky Is No Longer The Limit

Aviation is taking flight here at Stockton Sixth Form College as we launch our pioneering Aviation Operations programme in collaboration with Aviation Generation (AvGen). This exciting new course is set to provide local students with unparalleled opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, Aviation.

As the only college outside London to offer this industry-led qualification, we are placing ourselves firmly on the aviation education map. Backed by global aviation leaders including British Airways, Boeing, Embraer and Heathrow Airport, the programme connects students directly with the skills and experience needed for a future in aviation. From flight operations and engineering to sustainability and airport logistics.

The college celebrated the course launch with a special event that saw three lucky students from Errington Primary School get their first taste of the skies. For the first time, they experienced what it’s like to fly using a state-of-the-art warrior Piper Warrior simulator, designed to replicate real-life pilot training. Their awe and excitement were clear, as they sat in the cockpit of a Piper Warrior simulator, guided by our own tutor and Pilot Paul Keenen.

BBC Look North was on site to capture the magic, and their full feature will be broadcast at 6:30pm on Wednesday 2 July. Shining a spotlight on this groundbreaking initiative and the young students who dared to dream of flying.

Dr Nichole Munro, CEO of Atomix Educational Trust, said:
“This programme represents a powerful step forward for education in Stockton-on-Tees. We’re building genuine pathways that connect young people directly to world-class industries. Our partnership with Aviation Generation shows our dedication to transforming potential into real-world achievement.”

The Aviation Operations course isn’t just about theory, it’s about hands-on learning. From Industry-grade flight simulators, and exclusive masterclasses with aviation professionals this course has it all for our learners starting in September. With internships, site visits and mentoring from industry giants, the programme delivers on its promise to bring the cockpit into the classroom.
 
“This partnership brings the cockpit to the classroom in ways we’ve never seen before,” said Dr Noel Dennis, Director of Business Development at Atomix Educational Trust.

Mike Mackin, Head of Centre at Stockton Sixth Form, added:
“This course is a game-changer for our region. It removes barriers and makes high-value aviation careers accessible to students across Teesside. Talent, not geography, will define our students’ futures.”

Simon Witts of Aviation Generation praised the partnership:

“Stockton’s commitment to immersive, authentic training is inspiring. Together, we’re preparing the next generation to innovate and lead the future of aviation.”

Councillor Clare Besford, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “It’s great that young people in Stockton-on-Tees will be able to access this course and world-class aviation facilities on their doorstep.  It means that people interested in this career path don’t have to travel outside of the Borough to study, learn new skills in this sector – and it opens the doors to exciting opportunities with leading airlines and employers in the sector.”

With global passenger numbers expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025, demand for aviation professionals is soaring. Stockton Sixth Form’s new programme ensures Teesside’s students are ready to meet that demand.

Prospective students and families are invited to the Aviation Course Public Launch on Thursday 18^th September.  Visitors will have the chance to explore the facilities, meet airline partners, and even try flying a simulator themselves.

For the young dreamers of Stockton-on-Tees, the sky is no longer the limit, it’s just the beginning.

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