BTEC Level 3 Aviation Operations Course in Croydon. Classes run at Coulsdon Sixth Form College, full-time during the day over two years. Fee remission may be available for eligible learners, so fees may or may not apply depending on your circumstances. You'll get a broad introduction to the aviation industry, covering both ground and in-flight operations. Topics include aviation security and onboard passenger operations, with hands-on training in the college's own cabin crew aircraft simulator. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and maths.
Who this course is for
This course will give you a broad introduction to the aviation industry, both on the ground and in the air. Aviation is one of the most exciting and important industries in the UK. The last ten years has seen rapid growth, and the aviation industry has expanded throughout the UK & Internationally. Topics include security in the aviation industry and Onboard Passenger Operations. This unit is very similar to Cabin Crew where we use our own classroom cabin crew aircraft simulator to train and develop your skills. With new airlines, expanded airports and growing route networks, there is a need for a skilled and well-educated workforce. The industry has bounced back strongly from COVID and continues to grow.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs grade 9-4 and a satisfactory school reference. Including English Language at grade 4 and maths at grade 4 as a minimum.
What you will learn
You'll explore how the aviation industry operates on the ground and in the air.
You'll study security procedures and regulations in the aviation industry.
You'll learn onboard passenger operations, including cabin crew roles and responsibilities.
You'll train in a classroom cabin crew aircraft simulator, practising real in-flight scenarios.
You'll develop knowledge of how UK and international aviation has grown and changed.
You'll build an understanding of the different roles and departments that keep an airport and airline running.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions and practical training in the college's cabin crew aircraft simulator. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC is assessed through coursework and assignments rather than traditional exams. You'll build a portfolio of work across your units over the two years, with ongoing assessment throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Coulsdon Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Cabin crew member: serve passengers and manage in-flight safety
Airport customer service agent: assist passengers at check-in and gates
Ground operations agent: coordinate aircraft turnaround and logistics
Passenger service agent: support travellers through the airport journey
Aviation security officer: screen passengers and baggage at airports
Airline operations coordinator: support scheduling and flight operations
Airport retail or lounge host: deliver service in an airport environment
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Aviation Operations (Pearson Edexcel): a larger qualification that goes deeper into the sector and may strengthen your application for degree-level study.
Foundation Degree or BA in Aviation Management: degree-level study for those aiming for management or operational leadership roles in the industry.
Airline-specific cabin crew training: most airlines run their own induction programmes once you meet their minimum age and fitness requirements.
