Air and Space Institute reaches new heights

The partnership gives ASI students the chance to complete top-up degrees delivered by NTU after finishing their Level 5 studies. 

ASI launched in 2021 with the first intake studying programmes designed for future civil aviation and military pilots, aircraft engineers and ground crew.  

Earlier this year the UK’s first astronaut, Helen Sharman launched ASI’s Space and Engineering pathway and work is well underway on the construction of its new £15m HQ in Newark. 

School-leavers will gain level-three qualifications in a world-class facility that will house an aircraft for trainee engineers to work on. Pilot pathway students will fly ASI aircraft out of Nottingham Aerodrome and all students will benefit from one of the most extensive enrichment programmes in the UK.  

Lincoln College Group Principal and CEO Mark Locking said: “We always seek out collaboration to strengthen our ability to develop truly employer-led training and this partnership with Nottingham Trent University completes ASI’s career flightpath from schools to the skies.  

“We are hugely excited about ASI higher education students having the opportunity to complete their studies with an award-winning and influential university, renowned for its innovation, sustainability and popularity with students.” 

From September 2023, students can continue their studies beyond Level 3 at the Institute to undertake a Higher Education Level 4 HNC qualification, progressing to a Level 5 HND, in either Aeronautical Engineering or International Travel and Tourism Management (Aviation) with Pilot Studies. Thanks to this new partnership with NTU, students completing the top-up degrees (subject to validation) at ASI NTU will achieve a full Level 6 bachelor's degree

Professor Edward Peck, President and Vice-Chancellor at Nottingham Trent University said: “Partnerships such as this are vital to help bridge the gap between further and higher education, giving students different options and choices in their career pathway. NTU’s existing collaborations with further education colleges demonstrate how beneficial these relationships can be.  

“It is an exciting time for ASI with its new HQ in development, providing students with state-of-the art equipment and facilities. However, the wider effect on the community and on regeneration of the area is something NTU wholly supports and encourages. We look forward to working together to train and develop the next generation of aviation experts.”

Tom Cartledge, Co-Chair of the Newark Town Board, said: “I’m delighted that Newark Town Board, supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council, were successful in its bid for £25m as part of the Government’s Towns Fund initiative to bring this project to life.

“It’s wonderful to see the project make good progress and this new partnership with Nottingham Trent University is great news for the town. It means aspiring students who want a career in the aviation industry can choose Newark as their destination of choice to achieve their higher education ambitions.

“We hope this new working relationship shows that Newark is growing, and that the town is showing real aspirational growth through the projects part of Newark Town Board.”

John Robinson, Chief Executive of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The District Council is proud to be part of this project that is delivering fantastic opportunities in the skills and education sector that will go on to make a huge difference in our community.

“The partnership with Nottingham Trent University gives the district that extra boost in encouraging people to work, learn and earn in in the area.” 

For more information on all ASI courses visit: www.asi-newark.co.uk.