ATSEP Basic consists of the following four modules:

ATSEP induction, Air Space concepts, Aeronautical Information Systems, and Meteorology

• An introduction to the training scheme for ATSEP, the types of worksites and the regulatory framework in which they are employed
• An introduction to air space concepts and an understanding of sector responsibilities
• Gain an understanding of Aeronautical Information Systems and how details of available services and procedures are promulgated for pilots
• Understand how Meteorology and its reporting affects aircraft operations, and ANSP maintenance activities and services.

Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance systems

Gain an understanding of the primary CNS services and systems provided by ANSPs and the GNSS in a context of aircraft operations, to provide the ATSEP with the operational awareness of the systems they will be responsible for, and the broad safety implications each carries.

Data Processing, SMC, and Infrastructure

• An introduction to the nature of data processing in surveillance and ATM systems, including safety nets, Flight Data and Surveillance Data Processing and display, and ATC handovers as flights progress
• An introduction to System Monitoring and Control concepts in the coordination between ATC and maintenance personnel.
• Understand the infrastructure that supports ATM and CNS systems, including electrical power and air-conditioning.

Safety and Human factors

• Gain an understanding of operational and occupational safety principles
• Understand Human Factors and the workplace conditions that may affect them.

The aim of this course is to equip participants with the necessary knowledge required to begin safely working in a ground-based aviation environment for an Air Navigation Service Provider. Participants will be introduced to fundamental air-space and ATC concepts, and the general purpose of Communication, navigation, surveillance, and Air Traffic Management and Control systems.

This course is a prerequisite to and leads into Communication, Navigation, Surveillance, Data Processing, Infrastructure, and Engineering Qualification courses. The content is based on the recommendations of ICAO Doc 10057, Appendix B1.

At the end of this training programme, participants will be able to:

• Describe the ATSEP role within an ANSP
• Explain fundamental Air Space and Air Traffic Management concepts
• Explain the organization and purpose of aeronautical information
• Explain the impact of Meteorological factors on aeronautical operations
• Explain fundamental concepts in the operation of Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance systems and their role in Air Traffic Control and Air Traffic Management
• Explain fundamental concepts of Data Processing and its role in Air Traffic Control and Air Traffic Management
• Describe the role of SMC staff in the coordination of the maintenance and operation of the above systems
• Explain fundamental concepts regarding the maintenance of supporting infrastructure for the above systems
• Describe the safety systems operating within an ANSP
• Explain typical hazards and their controls when working as an ATSEP
• Describe human factors and their impact on a team environment.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age, and be proficient in reading, writing and speaking English - usually to standard IELTS 5.5 with no band less than 5.

This virtual course will be delivered via a blended learning approach - some sessions will be led by an instructor in a virtual classroom environment, and the remainder will be self-directed study. For the instructor-led component students will participate in live virtual sessions, with access to a range of digital interactive content from videos, quizzes and discussion forums. For the self-directed study, students will access our cloud-based learning resources, AirBooks and complete assignments and other activities.

• Dedicated instructor support
• A mix of structured study as a cohort, and self-directed learning
• Dynamic digital content, using AirBooks.

• Students are given a login to a Microsoft Office 365 account to enable access to AKO Connect, our online video conferencing tool
• Students log into the AKO site on individual devices each day, to access AKO Connect for virtual live sessions, study instructions and the course plan
• An AirBooks login will also be provided to access all AirBooks resources for the course. AirBooks can be accessed using any device, from a smartphone to a PC.