The students, hailing from seven local schools, are the first cohort to benefit from the College’s newly unveiled state-of-the-art aviation training facility. The custom-built mock cabin includes real airline seats, a fully functioning crew galley, authentic service trolleys, and an operational tannoy system, providing a highly immersive and hands-on learning environment.
This innovative facility allows students to gain practical experience in aviation and also develop a wide range of transferable skills, such as customer care, teamwork, sales, problem solving, and safety awareness. While many dream of becoming flight attendants, the course also offers exposure to broader opportunities within airport operations, travel, and tourism.
Attending the College two afternoons a week on day release from school, the students not only acquire industry-standard knowledge but also build lasting friendships and confidence in a setting beyond the classroom.
To celebrate their achievements, friends and families were invited to “board” West Airways for an in-flight experience led by the students themselves. Guests were treated to safety briefings and in-flight refreshments, offering a glimpse into their journey they had taken through the course.
Chris Watson, Curriculum Quality Leader for Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, said, “I was delighted to welcome everyone to this very special celebration, where the students showcased the incredible skills they’ve gained throughout the programme.
It’s a privilege for our students to learn in such a professional environment, guided by industry experts like Kirsty, whose experience as a former Emirates flight attendant ensures the highest standards are passed on. That quality was clearly evident in today’s event.
Lecturer Kirsty Caig added, “This event is a true celebration of our students’ success—something they should all be very proud of. The skills they’ve developed extend well beyond aviation and will serve them in any future career.
The new mock cabin has transformed the way we teach, giving students the confidence and hands-on practice they need to thrive in real-world environments.
The celebration was made even more memorable with a heartfelt speech by student Naomi Vermass, “Today marks a milestone in our lives as we celebrate our graduation from the travel and tourism course.
I want to thank Kirsty for her guidance, support, and passion—it’s been truly inspiring.
I’ve made amazing friendships and unforgettable memories, from singing Christmas songs with Lilah to saving a seat next to Emily during projects. I’ll even miss Keeley messaging me asking when the college bus is coming! I’ll never forget this experience.
It's going to be sad to leave all of you amazing people but one day I'm sure I'll see one of you walking down the aisle on a plane begging me to put my window up and I'll say the same thing I usually do - no go away.
