Airbus and Weston College Group today announced the signing of a formal lease agreement for the new Aerospace Skills Academy at Airbus’ Filton site, marking a major milestone in strengthening national resilience through aerospace and advanced engineering skills.

Under the agreement, Weston College Group will transform a building on the Filton site into a new training facility dedicated to advanced manufacturing and engineering skills. The Academy is scheduled to open in September 2026 in time for the new academic year.

The Aerospace Skills Academy forms a key strategic component of efforts to respond to the UK’s Industrial Strategy (including IS-8) and the Defence Industrial Strategy, both of which identify skills development as vital to sustaining global competitiveness in aerospace and wider engineering. The South West is home to a £2.7 billion aerospace cluster, making it a natural location for this investment in talent, innovation, and economic growth.

Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group, said: “Signing this lease with Airbus is a transformational step in delivering world-class higher technical education that directly supports national and regional economic priorities.”

Simon Galpin, Airbus Head of Filton Site, said, “The Aerospace Skills Academy represents a major investment in the future of UK aerospace and advanced engineering. Working with the Weston College Group, we are creating a pipeline of highly skilled talent that supports national capability, regional growth, and the long-term competitiveness of our industry.”

The Academy will operate as a flagship centre for technical education and workforce development, specifically tailored to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace and defence and advanced engineering employers. Its purpose is to strengthen the skills pipeline by aligning training provision directly with industry demand, supporting both national capability and regional economic resilience.

At the heart of the Academy will be an employer-led curriculum, co-designed with Airbus and a network of strategic partners including Babcock International Group, GKN Aerospace, MBDA, NCC, Rolls-Royce, and regional SMEs. This collaborative approach will ensure learners develop the technical expertise, behaviours, and experience required to succeed in high-value engineering roles.

The Academy will also prioritise inclusive access and clear progression routes, enabling learners to move seamlessly from Level 3 apprenticeship programmes through to higher and degree-level qualifications. This approach will help open high-quality careers in advanced manufacturing and engineering to individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.

Learners will be trained in refurbished workshop and teaching spaces featuring upgraded digital infrastructure and sustainability-focused systems. These facilities will mirror real industrial environments, providing hands-on, practical experience that prepares graduates to make an immediate and meaningful contribution to the UK’s advanced engineering, aerospace, and defence sectors.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career. 

Weston College is pleased to announce that Jane Hadfield, our Chair of Governors, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s New Year Honours List for her services to education.

Jane joined Weston College as Chair of Governors in November 2025. She brings a strong record of leadership and advocacy in skills, apprenticeships, and workforce development, most recently serving as National Lead for NHS Apprenticeships and as a board member of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

Before joining the College, Jane’s work nationally helped transform apprenticeship pathways across the NHS, creating opportunities for thousands of people to gain new skills, grow in confidence, and progress in their careers. She was also recognised earlier this year with a national Special Recognition Award at the Apprenticeship & Training Awards for her contribution to developing apprenticeships.

Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of the Weston College Group, said:

“We are very pleased that Jane’s wider contribution to education and skills has been recognised in the King’s Honours List. Her experience leading large-scale apprenticeship and workforce initiatives within the NHS, and her deep commitment to creating opportunity for learners, aligns closely with Weston College’s mission. We are thrilled Jane has taken the role of Chair of the Board, since joining us, Jane has already made a strong contribution to our governance and strategic oversight.”

Jane Hadfield, Chair of Governors, of the Weston College Group said:

“I am honoured to receive this MBE. It reflects much of the work I have been involved in over the years supporting skills development and widening access to learning. I’m delighted to bring that experience to Weston College and to work with governors, staff and partners in helping make a real difference for learners across the region.”

The King’s New Year Honours recognise people from across the UK who have made significant contributions to public life and their communities.

Weston College has launched Power Up, a new employer-focused campaign designed to help businesses strengthen their workforce, grow sustainably, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing skills landscape.

Power Up puts employers at the heart of Weston College’s mission to shape the future workforce. Beyond equipping local people with industry-ready skills, the campaign focuses on supporting businesses to grow, thrive, and build a strong, future-proof talent pipeline.

Through a flexible and tailored approach, Weston College works in partnership with employers to deliver solutions that fit each organisation’s needs. Support includes apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships, short courses, industry placements, work experience opportunities, and supported internships - all designed to align with real business demands.

Tracie Leahy, Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships & Skills said, “Weston College understands that investing in people is one of the smartest moves any business can make. Whether employers are looking to upskill their existing workforce, attract new talent, streamline training, or stay ahead of emerging industry trends, Power Up offers a comprehensive range of employer-focused content to help businesses succeed.”

How Power Up Benefits Your Business

• The Power Up campaign is built around outcomes that matter most to employers, including:
• Access to fresh skills and new perspectives
• Early engagement with emerging talent
• Reduced recruitment challenges
• Opportunities to trial potential employees before hiring
• Support with training, onboarding, and funding
• The chance to help shape courses to better match business needs

Power Up Employer Webinar Series

As part of the campaign, Weston College is also launching a Power Up Employer Webinar Series. These upcoming webinars are designed to keep employers informed and empowered, covering key topics across Further and Higher Education and providing practical insights to help businesses maximise the benefits of working with the College.

With Power Up, Weston College is reaffirming its commitment to working alongside employers - helping employers to build skills, unlock potential, and power up their business for the future.