Newark Air and Space Institute marks first success story as student lands cabin crew job with major airline TUI
The Air and Space Institute has seen its first success story, as a student takes to the skies for his new job with major airline TUI.
Kian Deighton becomes the Newark ASI’s first success story, laying the foundations for his career in aviation staring with his new cabin crew role — highlighting Kian's determination and passion and the comprehensive training preparing ASI students for exciting careers in the aviation industry.
Kian, an alumni ASI pilot student, said: “During my training at TUI, all the procedures and aviation-related terminology that you need to know, I had prior knowledge of from ASI, it has proven useful and put me that step ahead of people.
“I am currently cabin crew at TUI. It feels exciting stepping into the adult world — moving on in life and leaving education behind. I’ve been doing intense training learning about equipment, first aid, emergency procedures and specific sides of the aircraft. I’ve done four flights so far, including Zákinthos in Zante, Faro in Portugal, Tenerife, and Kos in Greece — it’s great to see the world through work.
“Other people should join the ASI course. If you are interested in aviation — it is the place to be. It is where you’ll start your career off. It will be very rewarding with the opportunities that it offers; flying and aviation learning. The course was challenging and rewarding at the same time; the assignments were hard work, but the trips and guest speakers give it a good balance.”
The Pilot and Aviation Operations Pathway offered by ASI is an opportunity for people seeking careers in commercial or military aviation. Central to this pathway is the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Aviation Operations.
Through the programme students gain an understanding of various aspects of the UK aviation industry, health and safety regulations, security measures, inter-relationships within aviation, aviation geography, airline and airport economics, and the environmental impacts of aviation.
Matt Lamb, director for planning and growth at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s a proud feeling to know that the ASI has been key to helping Kian achieve his aspiration. I am sure he will inspire lots of young people who want to do the same.
“When fully operational the ASI is expected to create almost 40 new jobs for the area and will provide countless training opportunities setting students on a pathway to skilled, well-paid jobs in the civil and military aviation and engineering industries. This is just the start, with more exciting courses set to launch when the new permanent facility opens next year”
As part of their journey, students will have the opportunity to fly an aircraft, gaining hands-on experience in the skies.
Additionally, they will have access to a state-of-the-art flight simulator, allowing them to refine their skills in a realistic and controlled environment, helping to create a sense of confidence and readiness as they progress towards becoming commercial or military pilots.
Tom Cartledge, co-chair of the Newark Town Board, said: “The ASI really is creating a work-ready workforce able to meet the needs and challenges of employers and Kian is the perfect example of that.
“Students local to Newark can fulfil their potential at the ASI and I’m sure many more will follow Kian’s footsteps into the working world soon. I’m proud that Newark Town Board has played its part in supporting the project and the town is showing real aspirational growth.
“The ASI is putting Newark on the map, and this is the start of a long successful journey for the town. By 2050, Newark’s world-class education provision will provide academic and vocational pathways at all levels of teaching across multiple key sectors.”
Dave Leonard, lecturer of Pilot Operations at the ASI, added: "Kian is a determined individual with a passion for flying — throughout his studies, he has developed his industry knowledge to secure not only his first job but also to secure his first step to realising his dreams. I do not doubt that he will succeed in his cabin crew role and progress to reaching his ultimate dream of becoming a commercial pilot.
"It's brilliant to see our students securing their first job and continuing their journey to fulfil their dreams of reaching for the skies. We look forward to seeing how their careers progress within the aviation industry"
“What a fantastic opportunity and progression for an extremely dedicated, friendly and hard-working learner. Kian has worked hard over the last two years to take his first steps into the aviation industry — it has paid off with a thoroughly deserved role at TUI," added Jim Guthrie, learning and skills lead at the ASI.
With the first success story of the ASI cohort, the institute says it eagerly looks forward to witnessing the promising careers of its students as they progress within the aviation industry —Kian's accomplishment serving as an inspiration for future cohorts, illustrating the endless possibilities and exciting opportunities that await those who are passionate about aviation.
