Swissport, the global airline support service company, has linked up with The Bournemouth & Poole College to create a training academy for new recruits to the industry. It’s the first of its kind in the South and the college recruits were given a rare glimpse of life behind the scenes at the airport.
Swissport provides ground support services to all passenger flights in and out of the airport, which is currently about 450 flights a month. It is responsible for baggage, check-in, boarding, loading and even aircraft cleaning duties.
The students will be learning skills required for airport ground handling services via a 26 week Level 2 Diploma in Airport Operations. The course will also include learning opportunities with Swissport at the airport. The students are guaranteed an interview at the end of the training, with the view to a position with Swissport.
The company has been expanding operations at Bournemouth Airport with the arrival of the airline Flybe.
John Barber, Swissport’s Station Manager for Bournemouth, said: “Aviation offers exciting careers, not only in the air but on the ground too.
“Over the last five years the college training regime has produced quality graduates and many have achieved success with Swissport.
“By creating a dedicated new Swissport Academy our links will be even closer. The curriculum and course content will meet any new demands of the industry. The requirements for each airline change almost daily so we need young people with common sense, reliability and adaptability.”
Judith Grandjean, Team Leader of Travel and Tourism at the college said: “We have an excellent relationship with Swissport and recognise the special skills and knowledge required at this level in the aviation industry.
“The diploma is a crucial starting point. It is hard work, there’s a lot to take in, but the rewards are excellent, not just in terms of pay, but job satisfaction.”
Mr Barber invited the new recruits on to the airport apron to watch the 25 minute aircraft turnaround of a Ryanair flight from Girona.
“We have a set turnaround time which requires skill and co-ordination to get passengers and their luggage on and off safely and efficiently. Gold-standard training and development are absolutely essential.”
Swissport has seen a 30 per cent expansion in its business at Bournemouth and has recently doubled its staff numbers.
