London Stansted is marking International Youth Day by highlighting the many ways it supports young people across the region, from mentoring and career advice to hands-on training, youth forums, and now an exciting new work experience scheme.

Held annually on 12 August, International Youth Day was set up by the United Nations to recognise the vital role young people play in their communities and raise awareness of the challenges they face.

London Stansted used the occasion to showcase its growing commitment to helping young people build brighter futures.

One of its biggest achievements is Stansted Airport College, opened in 2018 in partnership with Harlow College. As the first on-site further education college of its kind in the UK, it offers specialist courses in aviation, engineering, and hospitality, giving young people a direct pathway into exciting and rewarding careers.

Adding to these opportunities, this summer the airport launched a brand-new paid work experience scheme for Stansted Airport College students. Eight students are gaining valuable on-the-job experience in customer service and security ambassador roles across the airport. Running through July and August, the programme gives them real insight into a busy airport environment while supporting their personal and career development. The students, who come from towns across the region including Bishop’s Stortford, Harlow, and Chelmsford, receive full training, mentorship from airport teams, and an hourly wage.

Andreas Sieniawski, one of the students taking part in the work experience scheme, said: "I’ve already learned so much about how the airport works, especially around health, safety and security. This experience will help me build knowledge, make useful contacts, and hopefully lead to more opportunities."

The airport is also home to the Aerozone, a purpose-built education centre designed to inspire children and young people aged 4 to 18. Since it opened in 2015, the Aerozone has welcomed over 25,000 students and offers interactive learning on everything from science and engineering to the history of the airport and the many careers available on site.

Outside the classroom, airport staff also run a successful mentoring programme with local schools. More than 100 students have been supported so far, learning valuable life skills like time management, planning for the future, and building confidence.

Marcella M’Rabety, Head of Social Sustainability at MAG, said: “At London Stansted, we’re committed to creating opportunities for young people that give them the tools, confidence, and inspiration to thrive. From hands-on training and mentoring to giving young voices a platform on the big issues that matter, we’re proud to support the next generation and help them take their first steps into exciting, rewarding careers.”

London Stansted is also part of MAG’s Youth Forum, giving young people a voice in how the airport group tackles big issues like climate change, technology and recruitment. Earlier this year, students from Stansted Airport College joined around 90 others at MAG’s Youth Summit at East Midlands Airport, where they shared their ideas to help shape the company’s sustainability plans.

To learn more about how London Stansted supports young people, visit: www.stanstedairport.com/community.