Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology Partners with Gatwick Airport

London Gatwick has joined forces with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT) to provide essential technical skills in the region.

18:08 15 January 2024

London Gatwick has formed a partnership with the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (IoT), established in the current academic year (2023-24). This collaboration allows students to acquire hands-on airport experience, connect with industry professionals, and stay abreast of the latest technical advancements at London Gatwick. The airport has actively contributed to shaping the curriculum, ensuring its alignment with the local economy's needs. Specialist airport staff will conduct masterclass sessions, mock interviews, and offer feedback to enhance students' learning experience.

Distinguished from traditional colleges and universities, the Institute of Technology fosters a collaborative partnership between businesses and educational providers to address the specific technical skills required in the region. The objective is to cultivate a diverse and skilled pool of local talent crucial for the community and London Gatwick's future growth.

London Gatwick's commitment to local workforce skills initiatives, as part of its sustainability policy, Decade of Change, is evident in its involvement in designing and delivering training, with a focus on IT and cyber security. Nick Batchelor, Director of Information Technology at London Gatwick, expressed enthusiasm for being an industry partner of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, emphasizing the airport's commitment to supporting local workforce skills partnerships and initiatives.

Paul Rolfe, Director of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology, highlighted the institution's innovative approach to learning and its focus on providing flexible and affordable higher-level education and training in various fields. The IoT aims to address higher-level skills needs in engineering, manufacturing technologies, digital technologies, construction, planning, the built environment, and sustainable technologies. Courses are offered in collaboration with Chichester College, Crawley College, NESCOT, University of Brighton, and University of Sussex. The partnership underscores the commitment to preparing students for successful careers while meeting the evolving needs of the industry.