As part of the on-going education and school links programme, four Coulsdon College BTEC Engineering students were given the chance of a week’s work experience at Gatwick Airport.

Richard Briggs, Chris Barnes, Dhanish Dauhoo and Dave Ngaleu spent a week with Gatwick’s engineering team to gain an insight into what goes on ‘behind the scenes’ at an airport. This involved shadowing team members in a range of departments including security, heating systems, light safety and in the airfield.

Following the week, Dhanish commented, “I enjoyed seeing how the systems worked; it was a real eye opener.”

Chris continued, “I got a much better sense of how the different departments work together,” and Dave agreed, saying, “I have a much better understanding of their teams and how they have to work together for the safety of the airport.”

Richard followed up, by saying, “It has given me a much better understanding into the systems which are all needed for so much more than you realise when you walk through the airport.’

Gatwick offers an Apprenticeship scheme in the airport’s engineering department. As a result of their work experience, all four students are looking to apply.

Find out more about studying Engineering at Coulsdon College.

Find out more about Work Experience and Apprenticeship Programmes from the College Careers Department.