Key Facts

BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Aviation

The last ten years have seen rapid growth in the aviation industry has grown rapidly. With new airlines, expanded airports and growing route networks, there is a need for a skilled and well-educated workforce. The industry has bounced back strongly from COVID.

This course provides a broad introduction to the aviation industry, both on the ground and in the air.

  • Entry Requirements


    4 x GCSEs at grade 4/C, or, a Level 2 Certificate / Extended Certificate or above at Merit or above, in a relevant subject.

    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other this will include attendance. This is to ensure we can support to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence- based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference / school report.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish. Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    In the first year, you will study the UK aviation industry, health and safety, security, on-board operations, environmental issues in aviation, managing conflict, customer service and interrelationships in aviation.

    In the second year, you will study the principles of flight, development of the UK aviation industry since 1945, marketing, aviation geography and terminology, human resources, team leadership, airport and airline commercial operations, and passenger terminal management, and you will complete an independent research project.

  • Progression Next Steps


    You could join most of your fellow students in going to university to study Aviation Management or a related subject. Alternatively, you could apply for an Apprenticeship or seek employment in supervisory roles.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    There will be compulsory field trips. More information will be available at enrolment.

    For more information please contact our Admissions Team on 020 8268 3073 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Course Structure


    BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Operations is a two-year course equivalent to 2 A levels. If you have already achieved a grade 4 in both GCSE English and Maths, you will also complete an additional options which you will choose at enrolment.

    Current options include BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Travel & Tourism, BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Hospitality & Events Management.

    If you have a grade 3 or below in English and/or Maths, you will retake these GCSEs in the first year.

  • Assessment Details


    You will submit coursework assignments for all units throughout the first and second years