BTEC Travel & Aviation students at Kingston College attended Heathrow Airport this week for an immersive Safety & Emergency Procedures (SEP) Awareness Day delivered by British Airways. SEP training is critical, mandatory preparation for cabin crew and pilots, designed to ensure they can respond effectively to in‑flight emergencies and safety‑related situations.
The six‑hour experience took place at the heart of British Airways’ training centre and provided students with invaluable hands‑on learning and real‑world industry insight. Throughout the day, students rotated through specialist learning zones and practical activities, gaining first‑hand exposure to the high standards expected within the aviation industry.
Activities included demonstrations of safety and emergency equipment, pilot incapacitation scenarios, an A320 slide descent, slide raft practicals, smoke chamber and fire‑rig exercises involving naked flame, as well as full cabin evacuation procedures followed by professional de‑briefs. The experience gave students a realistic understanding of the physical, technical and teamwork demands placed on cabin crew and flight deck professionals.
Students thoroughly enjoyed the day, with several reporting that the experience had influenced them to consider a career as a flight attendant. One British Airways trainer praised the cohort, commenting that he was particularly impressed with two students and stating they had a “real chance to be cabin crew members if they went through BA training procedures.”
The visit provided a powerful insight into aviation safety and professionalism, helping students connect their studies to real career pathways within the airline industry.
