Level 3 Diploma & Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism: Aviation NCFE

Course Code

Aviation Education

Course Type

Course Duration

2 years

Location

Central Campus

Start Date

1 September, 2025
Travel Students outside BA plane

This Aviation Pathway is specifically designed for those who want to focus on the fast-paced world of aviation. You’ll study core units that will build your expertise in key areas such as:

  • Terminal Operations: Learn the ins and outs of managing airport terminals and understanding the flow of passengers and cargo.
  • Aviation Communications: Gain practical skills in communication, essential for working in an airport or airline environment.
  • Health and Safety: Understand aviation safety standards and protocols, ensuring you can maintain the highest levels of safety and security.
  • Commercial Operations: Learn about the business side of aviation, from airline operations to customer service management.

Alongside these units, you’ll also build key customer service, teamwork, and communication skills that are essential in the travel and tourism industries. You’ll gain real-world experience from top industry professionals and apply your learning in practical activities, from trip planning to delivering exceptional service. You’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience with renowned companies like Birmingham Airport and Mercure Hotel, earn recognised qualifications, and progress to higher-level courses or start your exciting career in aviation.

You must have five GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including English and Maths grade 4, or equivalent qualifications.

Example Modules Studied:

You’ll study a range of exciting modules, including:

• Customer Service in Travel & Tourism

• Aviation Operations

• Travel & Tourism Operations

• Aviation Safety & Security

 

This course is designed to offer practical, hands-on learning experiences:

• Lessons at Birmingham Airport & the Mercure Hotel: Participate in industry-specific workshops, where you’ll learn aviation operations, event planning, travel coordination, and top-tier customer service techniques.

• Field Trips: Visit key destinations such as airports, theme parks, and tourism exhibitions, experiencing the industry first-hand and learning from real-world professionals.

• Work Placements: Gain invaluable work experience through placements at top aviation, travel, and hospitality companies. Whether it’s working at Birmingham Airport, with airlines like Jet2 or TUI, or at world-class hotels such as Mercure, you’ll get a solid footing in the industry.

During the study programme, learners have the opportunity to participate in study visits to local attractions and employers.

Most trips are subsidised by the college, and are a mixture of day trips and residential visits. Recent study visits have included Dubai, Goa, Florida, a three-day mini-cruise and Alton Towers.

You’ll be assessed through coursework and hands-on activities that mirror real-life roles in the travel, aviation, and hospitality industries.

Your progress will be measured through real-world tasks, group projects, and practical assessments.

On successful completion of the Level 3 Aviation Education Programme, you will achieve the equivalent of 3 A Levels. You can then apply for university courses in subjects such as Tourism Management, Cruise Management or Aviation Management.

Employment is also an option, as this sector is one of the largest employers in the West Midlands. After successfully completing this course, you can begin your career in the Travel, Aviation and Hospitality industry. Previous students have progressed into employment with major companies such as Birmingham Airport, Emirates, BA and Ryanair.

Course Details

Qualification

Exam Board

Study Mode

Related Posts

Travel students at Butlins resort
Travel & Hospitality students from Sandwell College got a behind-the-scenes insight into what a Butlin’s career could be like for...

Apply for this course or find out more

Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

Related Courses

Central Airways fuselage for Travel students
Our new Adult NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Cabin Crew is the ideal course to launch your career in the airline industry. Whether you’re dreaming of working as a cabin crew member on...
Course Duration
1 year
Course Type
Adult Course
Start Date
1st September, 2025
Study Mode
Part Time
Travel Students outside BA plane
This Aviation Pathway is specifically designed for those who want to focus on the fast-paced world of aviation. You’ll study core units that will build your expertise in key areas such as: Terminal Operations: Learn...
Course Duration
2 years
Start Date
1st September, 2025
Study Mode
Full Time
Travel students on a Butlins trip
Are you passionate about working in the exciting world of travel, tourism, and hospitality? Our NCFE Level 2 Extended Certificate in Travel & Tourism is the perfect course. Whether you’re dreaming of working in hotels,...
Course Duration
1 year
Start Date
1st September, 2025
Study Mode
Full Time

Please ask your question below and we will get back to you.

Sandwell College will use the information provided for the purpose of dealing with your enquiry.
Skip to content