Helen Sharman addressed local students and parents at a special event to mark the launch of the Air & Space Institute’s Space Engineering Studies pathway.
Just a week after cutting the turf on the site ASI’s new £15m HQ, the first British Astronaut helped celebrate the launch its space course at the Newark Palace Theatre.
Helen gave an amazing account of her journey from replying to a radio advert in 1989, to blasting into space on 18th May 1991.
ASI’s Level 2 Space Engineering Studies course will offer a career pathway with progression routes through Level 3, HNC, HND and top-up degree, before students join the space industry.
As well as a grounding in applied engineering skills for aerospace, aviation and manufacturing the course has specific space studies including; Applications of Space Technology, Exploring Space, The Moon Our Nearest Neighbour, Planetary Landscapes and Life on Mars.
Helen said: “I’m delighted to have been with the ASI to share some of my experiences of being the first British astronaut.
“Thank you to everyone who came to hear what it’s like, actually to be living and working in space and how we use space to improve life on Earth.
“I hope students will be inspired to consider careers in the fast-growing UK space industry, and I wish the ASI students who are starting new Space Engineering courses in September every success!
“Thank you to the ASI for arranging this unique event and for highlighting the importance of the space industry in the UK”.
The UK offers exciting opportunities across the £16.4 billion space sector, which currently employs 45,100 people.
The UK’s National Space Strategy focuses on satellite-enabled broadband, in-orbit servicing and manufacturing, space-based energy, and more.
ASI’s Head of Education and Training Ross Tarnowski said: “Wow what a way to launch our Space Engineering Studies pathway. It was great to see our students and lots of local school pupils just fascinated by Helen’s story – what an inspiration.
“Our new programme is a great way for school leavers to start on their journey to engineering careers in the space industry.
“The UK is renowned for its high-quality small satellite production and now we are starting to see operational space ports launching craft from UK soil. It’s an exciting time in the sector and we’re preparing young people to play their part in our future.”
Notes to editors:
Being built adjacent to the Newark and Sherwood District Council offices on the former Cattle Market site, the ASI was one of a number of priority projects identified as part of Newark’s Town Investment Plan, which was developed by the Newark Town Board to regenerate the town centre, boost business and improve infrastructure.
As part of the proposals, £10.6 is being contributed towards the project from the Towns Fund.
“I hope students will be inspired to consider careers in the fast-growing UK space industry, and I wish the ASI students who are starting new Space Engineering courses in September every success!" - Helen Sharmann
Newark’s new International Air & Space Training Institute (IASTI)® is now accepting applications for its September 2021 intake.
In April this year, we launched IASTI (Newark): The UK’s first International Air & Space Training Institute. We’re now hard at work preparing for our first intake of students in September 2021.
When you join IASTI (Newark) this September, you’ll be among the very first students to gain aviation industry skills and knowledge through the International Air & Space Training Institute. Here's what you can expect...
If you’re interested complete the form below and a member of the team will be in touch soon.