Helping young people take off: How Stansted is developing future talent

As London Stansted marks World Youth Skills Day (July 15), we're shining a spotlight on the work taking place across the airport to help inspire young people, develop skills and open the door to future careers.  

From welcoming school groups to Aerozone and supporting students through Stansted Airport College, to working with schools, colleges, local councils and government, helping young people discover opportunities and develop skills is an important part of the airport's role in the local community. 

We caught up with Marcella M'Rabety, Head of Social Sustainability at MAG, to find out more. 

Why is it important for the airport to support young people with skills, education and career opportunities? 

"Supporting young people is important because it helps us build the future workforce the airport needs while creating opportunities for local communities. By helping young people develop skills and access careers, we're investing in both their future and the future success of the airport." 

What's the overall aim of Stansted's education and skills programme? 

"Our aim is to inspire young people, equip them with relevant skills and create clear pathways into employment at the airport. We want to open up opportunities, build confidence and help young people move into meaningful careers with MAG or one of the many employers based at Stansted." 

How do we work with local schools and colleges to help inspire young people and show them what's possible? 

"We work closely with schools and colleges to give young people first-hand experience of the aviation industry. Through Aerozone visits, mentoring, careers talks, work experience and events such as our recent Careers Festival, we help young people understand the opportunities available and the skills needed to succeed." 

Aerozone has welcomed thousands of students over the years. What makes it such a good experience for young people? 

"For many young people, a visit to Aerozone is the moment aviation becomes real. The interactive exhibits, careers talks and viewing platform overlooking the runway help bring the industry to life. It gives young people the chance to step beyond the classroom and imagine themselves working in aviation one day." 

What are some of the careers at the airport that people are often surprised to hear about? 

"Most people know about pilots, cabin crew and security officers, but they're often surprised by the huge range of careers available. There are opportunities in digital and technology, engineering, sustainability, logistics, airfield operations, communications, retail, hospitality, HR, finance and many more. With more than 12,000 people working across over 200 companies, the airport is like a small town." 

How does Stansted Airport College help young people prepare for the world of work? 

"As the UK's only on-site aviation college, Stansted Airport College sits right beside the runway, placing learners at the heart of one of the UK's busiest airports. Every day, students are surrounded by the sights, sounds and opportunities of the aviation industry, helping bring their learning to life. Its employer-led curriculum is designed alongside industry partners, helping students develop the practical skills and experience needed to succeed. Last year, 98% of graduates progressed into employment or further study." 

Is there a success story that really stands out? 

"What stands out most is seeing young people progress through the entire journey. We've seen students visit Aerozone, discover what's possible, train at Stansted Airport College and then go on to start their careers here at the airport. It's a powerful example of how the right support and opportunities can help turn ambition into reality." 

What skills will be most important for young people starting their careers? 

"It's not just about qualifications - it's about mindset. Communication, teamwork, adaptability and a willingness to learn are all hugely important. Above all, we're a customer-focused industry, so understanding people and delivering great service is key." 

How does helping young people develop skills today support Stansted's future growth? 

"As the airport grows and creates thousands of new jobs, we'll need a strong pipeline of skilled people to fill those roles. Through Aerozone, Stansted Airport College and our wider education and employment programmes, including our Employment and Skills Academy, we're helping ensure local young people are ready to take advantage of those opportunities. Supporting young people in this way is important because it helps us build the future workforce the airport needs while creating opportunities for local communities and helping reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET)." 

With World Youth Skills Day approaching, what message would you give to young people? 

"Believe in your potential and stay open to new opportunities. You don't need to have everything mapped out. Every experience, whether that's work experience, volunteering, mentoring or simply asking questions, can help shape your future." 

Looking ahead, what would you like the programme to achieve? 

"We want to create an even more connected education and skills ecosystem that brings together schools, colleges, employers and the airport. Our ambition is to support at least 25,000 young people by 2030 and expand Stansted Airport College to more than 1,000 learners, helping even more people access rewarding careers in aviation and beyond."