South Africa's ALT Academy Partners with Rhodesfield High School to Develop Aviation Training Pathways

South Africa – Johannesburg-based aviation training organisation ALT Academy, operating through EPT Aviation Training (Pty) Ltd, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rhodesfield High School, also known as Rhodesfield Engineering School of Specialisation in Aviation, to develop an aviation education pathway for secondary school students. Signed on 7 October 2026, the agreement aims to connect early aviation career exposure with technical education, occupational training and progression into the aviation workforce.

• The proposed Aviation Specialisation Pathway will introduce aviation awareness in earlier school grades, progressing to more specialised aviation and occupational training opportunities for learners in Grades 9–12. The initiative covers potential careers in:
  • pilot training,
  • aircraft maintenance,
  • avionics,
  • cabin crew,
  • airport operations and
  • aviation safety.
• ALT Academy will support the development and maintenance of technical training workshops, educator upskilling, qualified instruction and safety-related training. Rhodesfield High School will provide access to identified workshop facilities and coordinate learner and educator participation.
• The partnership also proposes extracurricular training in first aid, occupational health and safety, fire safety and emergency procedures. Grade 12 students may additionally receive workplace preparation covering professional communication, CV development, interview preparation and other employability skills.
• Students could gain industry exposure through visits to airports, airlines, aircraft maintenance organisations, engineering facilities and aviation training centres, subject to availability and relevant approvals.
• A joint steering committee will oversee the partnership's implementation, monitor student participation and training outcomes, and guide the development of a subsequent commercial agreement.
• AFM previously reported that ALT Academy CEO Ryan van Wijk identified limited early exposure to aviation careers and financial barriers as challenges affecting the development of future pilots and engineers across Africa during a March 2026 AFM Pilot Training Leadership Interview.
• A priority under the agreement is to pursue Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) accreditation for the school's technical workshops. The proposed technical training pathways include the Occupational Certificate: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic and Occupational Certificate: Avionics Mechanic, subject to accreditation, practical training, workplace experience and applicable aviation regulatory requirements.

About ALT Academy
ALT Academy is a South African aviation training organisation based in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, providing airline pilot type ratings, ab initio flight training, cabin crew training and aviation skills development through its training operations, including EPT Aviation Training. Its simulator infrastructure supports Airbus A320ceo/neo and Boeing 737 training, while its flight school lists Cessna 172 and Diamond DA42 training aircraft.

Source: ALT Academy