Aviation Generation Partners with Stockton Sixth Form College to Launch Groundbreaking Aviation Operations Programme

Aviation Generation is proud to announce the official launch of a pioneering Aviation Operations programme in collaboration with Stockton Sixth Form College – a bold step forward in our mission to make aviation careers more accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for young people across the UK.

As the only college outside of London to deliver this forward-thinking, industry-led qualification, Stockton Sixth Form College joins our growing network of educational trailblazers bringing real-world aviation training into the classroom. Backed by major global industry players including British Airways, Boeing, Embraer, and Heathrow Airport, the course will give students hands-on access to the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in today’s aviation sector – from flight operations and sustainability to engineering and airport logistics.

This milestone was celebrated in style with an immersive launch event that brought aviation to life for the local community. In a heartwarming moment, three excited students from Errington Primary School took to the virtual skies in a state-of-the-art Piper Warrior simulator, guided by qualified pilot and tutor Paul Keenen. Their wide-eyed enthusiasm underscored exactly why we do what we do at AvGen – to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals, no matter their background.

BBC Look North was there to capture the excitement, with a feature airing at 6:30pm on Wednesday 2 July, showcasing how this course is already lifting off in Stockton-on-Tees.

“Stockton’s commitment to immersive, authentic training is inspiring,” said Simon Witts, Founder of Aviation Generation. “Together, we’re preparing the next generation to innovate and lead the future of aviation. This is exactly the kind of partnership we need to break down barriers and bring real opportunity to young people – no matter where they live.”

The programme is designed to go beyond traditional education. Learners won’t just study aviation – they’ll live it. With industry-grade simulators, exclusive masterclasses, and mentoring from aviation professionals, students will be immersed in every aspect of the sector. Site visits, internships, and genuine industry links ensure that Stockton learners will be leaving the classroom ready to step into high-value aviation careers.

“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.Dr Nichole Munro, CEO of Atomix, added: “Our work with AvGen is transforming education in Stockton. This course builds a pipeline from classroom to cockpit and empowers young people to chase big dreams.”

Mike Mackin, Head of Centre at Stockton Sixth Form, called the launch a "game-changer" for Teesside:

“It removes barriers and makes high-value aviation careers accessible to students across our region. Talent, not geography, will define our students’ futures.”

Councillor Clare Besford, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, praised the initiative:

“Now, young people in our borough can access world-class aviation training without leaving the area – opening doors to exciting futures with leading global employers.”

With global air travel expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025, the need for well-prepared aviation professionals is greater than ever. Through this partnership, Aviation Generation is ensuring Teesside’s students are ready to soar.

We warmly invite prospective students and families to join us at the Aviation Course Public Launch on Thursday 18th September. Visitors will be able to meet airline partners, explore the facilities, and experience the thrill of flight in our simulator.

At Aviation Generation, we believe that aviation isn’t just a career – it’s a calling. And for the students of Stockton, that journey starts now.