Two Shrewsbury College students are preparing to take the next exciting step in their careers after being selected for the highly competitive Airbus Degree Apprenticeship Programme, which begins in September 2026.
Tom Hughes and Harrison Edgley have secured places at Airbus, one of the world's leading aerospace companies, after a rigorous application and selection process that attracts thousands of applicants from across the UK each year.
The former Corbet School students are close friends and had applied separately to the Airbus Apprenticeship scheme, unaware of each other's applications. There was also a degree of good-natured competition between them throughout the assessment process, especially when Harrison learned slightly earlier than
Tom that he had been accepted onto the apprenticeship scheme.
They plan to stay in the local area and share the daily commute to the Airbus facility in Broughton, near Chester.
Tom Hughes added: ‘We’ll be working at the Broughton site four days a week, completing the on-the-job element of the apprenticeship programme, and one day a week at university.’
Tom continued: ‘I considered several options for what I wanted to do after finishing college, including pursuing a law degree. However, I had always been interested in aeronautics, so when I saw the Airbus apprenticeship, I jumped at the opportunity. I’m delighted to be working for one of the best Aerospace companies in the world. I’d love to stay with Airbus after the apprenticeship finishes, and I’d really like to work in one of their overseas facilities as well.’
Harrison Edgley said: ‘It’s a three-year programme that enables us to work across different areas of the business. There are many options for how the apprenticeship will progress, as we work alongside experts on cutting-edge projects. We’ll develop the technical, professional, and leadership skills needed for a successful career in engineering, manufacturing, and business operations. We’ll gain some fantastic skills and experiences as well as come out of it with a Level 6 qualification in Applied Business Management as well as two Level 4 qualifications in the Principles of Leadership & Management as well as a Diploma in Management.’
‘I hope to stay on with Airbus after finishing the apprenticeship and develop a long-term career with the company, ideally.’ Harrison added.
James Staniforth, Principal of Shrewsbury College, said:
‘We are incredibly proud of Harrison and Tom for securing places on the Airbus Degree Apprenticeship Programme. This is a fantastic achievement and a recognition of their talent, determination and hard work.’
‘Degree apprenticeships offer an outstanding opportunity for young people to gain valuable industry experience while continuing their education. Airbus is one of the most respected employers in the world. We wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter.’