I've carried out training courses at several of the UK air traffic colleges and was quite impressed with the standard of training provided by ASTAC on a recent UK OJTI course.
The instructors were friendly but fair, and there were non of the old 'unemployable' well-known faces that you often see doing the rounds in these sort of place. The course content was relevant and well-taught and the simulator instruction was good. The blippies were excellent and apparently have all passed the ATC aptitude tests.
The building itself could perhaps be improved slightly as it feels a bit like a Portacabin but that's really a very minor flaw as it was well equipped. Located next to the tower, so for people who are new to ATC the on-site airport could be a bit of an advantage.
These guys won't guarantee a pass, and they're quite right as there's no point in putting people through courses who're just not fit for the job. Therefore if you're self-sponsoring, it's WELL worth paying for the aptitude testing first! read more