Twelve students have commenced their programme of studies as part of the UK's first full-time post-16 Space Engineering course, combining A levels with hands-on engineering experience. This innovative course has been developed and delivered jointly by the National Space Academy programme and Loughborough College and can lead to degrees in physics, mathematics and engineering, or alternatively to direct employment in the space and engineering sectors.
Jim Mutton, former Principal of Loughborough College, said: "Space is a growing industry that contributes £7.5 billion to the UK
economy and employs close to 24,000. The combination of A-levels in Physics and Mathematics and a BTEC Level 3 diploma in Engineering, all taught in a space context, are designed to stretch students with academic and hands-on skills that will really give them an edge."
The students will spend one day per week at the National Space Centre, and Academy staff are responsible for all A Level physics delivery as well as leading the students' programme of extra masterclasses, space industry visits and space industry work experience placements which will take place in the summer of 2013. The students will also be regularly "blogging" for the UK Space Agency's website.
More information:
Loughborough College's Space Engineering page.
Space Engineering blog