I did A Levels at Sixth Form and studied Physics, Business and Applied Science. I knew I wanted a wanted a hands-on job, but I didn't know what sector. I applied for the RAF but didn't get in and then I found the Aviation Academy, which is very similar, plus getting a degree out of it. Another bonus is you get to sit your Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) modules which means you can apply to get a license to be B1.1 engineer which was very appealing to me. 

It opens lots of options. You don't have to go into Aircraft Maintenance engineering after achieving the degree. You could be an electrical engineer or a mechanical engineer, it teaches you lots of skills that can be applied to different careers. 

The facilities are amazing - the Jet Stream and Premier 1 aircraft are very cool. A lot of other places don’t have real planes to work on. Also, it's close to the airport which is very inspiring. 

The classes are also really small, which is different from other higher education institutions. The staff can really give you that one-to-one learning experience.  

It’s different! I've not come across one other person who has done this degree anywhere else. When I tell people what I know, they're very impressed. It's nice to be able to show off my knowledge of such a niche topic. 

I love the metal work we do as part of the course and my Grandad worked in metalwork fabrication. When I go home, we can bond over what I've learned that day and he can teach me things too. 

We go on trips to see hangers all over the country. We’ll do more in Level 5 and 6, which I'm really looking forward to. We also get to speak to more employers - the course gives you great opportunities to get those industry links to help you get a job once you graduate. 

I don't think it's specific to this course. Across the University Centre, it's a running theme that tutors have had experience in the industry.  

I think it's a benefit because if I’m getting taught how to, for example, rivet metal together, from someone who hasn’t done it before, I'm not going to trust them as much as a person who has. As my tutors have knowledge of the industry, it can give us a better understanding of the expectations of the real world of work.  

They treat you like an adult and they're very helpful and supportive. 

My writing ability has come a long way. During my A Levels, I struggled with this, and the teachers didn't really have the time to support me due to bigger class sizes. But here, the staff have given me the confidence to ask for help and improve my skill set. I don't feel bad for getting it wrong anymore, it's seen as an opportunity for learning. 

Communicating with people of different ages has helped my confidence and helped me grow as a person too. 

Seeing the Typhoons outside! Every now and then, they’ll land nearby and refuel. It’s just inspiring to me and reminds me why I’m here! 

The nightlife is good! It’s good for socialising because there is usually a student deal in most restaurants and bars. It makes the city a great place to be as a student as there's always so many places to go and people to meet. 

The University Centre has not just taught me the academic and practical skills I need but soft skills too. I wasn't very confident talking to people before I started my course.  

I think the basic skills of the workplace will really help once I leave. 

I want to get my license and work at Heathrow for a few years. Then one day, live in Australia. That’s one of the other reasons I took the course as you need a high-in-demand job to get over there. Also, it's a good paid job so that should help too! 

Just do it! I was nervous about studying a degree and starting over somewhere new, but everyone is really friendly and I’m really loving it! 

Different, fun and hands-on! 

Listen to the tutors, they're right!