I've always loved aviation and wanted to work in the industry. Back in Nigeria, I have a degree in Applied Physics, which is really helpful for this course. When I finished my degree in Nigeria, I decided to pursue it further and specialise in aircraft maintenance.

The structure of the Academy is better than the other options. I was looking at going to an institute in Dubai, but Newcastle College University Centre offered the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licence and a degree, so it’s two in one. There aren’t many places offering both.

They’re great. It’s as close as you can get to actually working in industry. I’ve done an internship at a flying school back in Nigeria, so the facilities here make me feel more connected to the aircraft. It’s not just learning theories but getting more hands-on experience for this degree. We have the Premier 390 and the Jetstream that we do most of our practical work on.

I’ve heard testimonies from Level 6 students who have been for interviews, and they are confident speaking about their education because they’ve already done practical work similar to what they would be doing in industry.

The practical work. The other day we were riveting a piece together. I was working on it for 5-6 weeks and right at the end I messed it up, so I had to redo it. This time it only took me 2 weeks, so I learned from that experience. I like doing practical stuff.

For me, it’s about being able to add value. Everyone - from the aircraft operators to the baggage handlers - adds value to an aviation company’s success. Being part of a great company and feeling fulfilled is really why I'm in it.

So far, we’ve had talks with Eshott Airfield. They came to offer us two internships for Level 4 students. The opportunity sounds great. The successful applicants will go to their base one day a week in Northumberland for training, and more often during the holidays. After their degree, they may have the opportunity to be employed under a graduate scheme.

I think it's been great. They’re a big asset to the Aviation Academy. They know a lot based on their experience. They’re nice - they're like friends.

Where I come from, the system was very different to the UK higher education system. In the UK, there's lots of writing involved. I’ve not had any experience with citations, referencing or even essay writing. I feel like I've really improved over the year. In a recent exam, I got 76%, which was amazing as I didn’t know how to write essays before coming here. I’m very proud of myself!

I received great support from the International Team when I first got to the UK. They helped me open a bank account and I still speak to them whenever I need help.

We’re exposed to practical work that is very closely related to industry, like using tools and working on aircraft.

In most interviews, they’ll ask you to do a practical task, for example wire locking. Our tutor has made us do this often, so we are prepared for the interviews. He also tests us to know which tool is which. It seems small but will be very useful in the long run.

I’d love to complete my CAA licence. I’ll need to get a placement or job and work for another two years before I qualify for that.

This is the best place to be. The modules are structured efficiently so you can get the most out of your time here.

In the beginning, it was challenging - having to adapt to a new country and way of life.

The next would be educational. I don't mean in the way of exams, but just knowing about the aircraft and systems. I’ve learnt so much since studying here.

Finally, I’d say interesting. At the weekend, I miss it. I just can't wait for Monday so I can get back here.

Start reading early - there are a lot of modules, so preparation is key!