Are you leaving school and dreaming of a career in the skies?

Working as cabin crew may have been a dream of yours for a long time. But perhaps at the moment you’re not in a position to apply – maybe you’re still a little below the age requirements or aren’t sure if you have the right qualifications.

However, the role of cabin crew is about much more than ‘paper’ qualifications!

Although you’ll be expected to be educated to GCSE level (or equivalent) for the majority of positions, the really important things that the recruitment ream will be looking for are your personal qualities, commitment to the career, and past experiences.

So what could you be doing now to help your chances of achieving your dream?
 

Relatable Work Experience

One of the most prized qualities of a member of Cabin Crew is excellent customer service.

For some people this comes easily and naturally, for others not so much!

However experience in customer service is very important – and this experience can be gained in any industry – working in shops, cafes, libraries or restaurants…the list is endless!

An alternative is volunteer work, for example in a local charity shop, which also shows great initiative.
 

First Aid Training

Although you’ll receive first aid training as part of your pre-employment training, completing a basic course before you apply could help improve your chances of standing out.

There are often classes run locally that you could join in with. You can also check the British Red Cross website to see if any of their classes are being held near you.
 

Teamwork

When you’re flying it’s of the utmost importance that you and your fellow crew members work together as a team.

Experience of working within a team will help you build crucial skills and experience you can then transfer to your cabin crew role.

If you’re confident in this area it will really show throughout the application process, which can dramatically increase your chances of being selected.

You probably would have gained teamwork experience from any jobs you might have had.

But there are other things you could try, like joining a sports team or a musical group.

There are various initiatives for young people that promote team working skills and character building, such as the renowned Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Have a look to see what’s available in your local area!
 

Foreign Languages

While it’s unlikely you’ll expected to be fluent in another language, some knowledge of one of the most popular languages spoken could give you a huge advantage when applying.

An obvious place to start is building on your language subjects from school.

Your local college or community centre may offer evening or online classes in different languages, and often there are discounts and help with funding available (depending on your circumstances).

There are also some fantastic apps out there such as Duolingo, Mindsnacks and Babbel, which make learning the basics fun and easy.
 

Cabin Crew Courses

One of the best ways to get a real feel for whether the life of cabin crew is for you is by completing a dedicated cabin crew course.

Attending a course can really show your commitment to becoming cabin crew.

We offer a Cabin Crew 2 day Course taught by qualified and experienced instructors and ex-crew, which covers all aspects of the role from the application process onwards.

Although the minimum age for most airlines to accept crew is 18, you’re very welcome to come along to the course if you’re not at that age yet .

If you can’t come along to one of our courses in person we also offer an online Cabin Crew e-learning course, which you can complete in your own time in the comfort of your home.

Research Online

There is so much information out there for aspiring crew members.

And the more you know the better prepared you will be for your application, interview and beyond.

Each airline has their own website and blog, with all the latest facts and figures for you to read.

If there’s an airline that particularly stands out to you as one that you’d love to work for then do your homework – airline research can really help you to shine in your all important one to one interview.

Our website and blog is also bursting with information and articles written and picked to help you achieve your dream of becoming crew. Have a look around!