
Global – Leonardo International Training Capability
Summary
Leonardo Helicopters delivers specialist mechanical and avionics training to customers who operate and maintain aircraft across the world. Its clients include military and civilian organisations from countries including the United Kingdom, Algeria, Japan, the Philippines, Canada, Indonesia, Poland and Norway.
As the organisation’s global customer base continued to expand, training instructors were increasingly required to deliver technical training to learners from diverse cultural, linguistic and operational backgrounds. While instructors possessed extensive engineering expertise, Leonardo recognised an opportunity to further strengthen their ability to engage and support international learners effectively.
To address this need, Leonardo Helicopters partnered with Sterling Training Ltd to develop a targeted trainer development programme designed specifically for instructors working with international audiences.
Challenge
Technical expertise alone does not guarantee effective learning.
Leonardo’s instructors faced the challenge of delivering complex technical information to learners with differing levels of English proficiency, learning preferences and cultural expectations. The organisation wanted to ensure every participant attending the Leonardo Training Academy in Yeovil received a consistent, engaging and high-quality learning experience, regardless of background.
The objective was to strengthen instructional capability, improve learner engagement and equip instructors with practical strategies for overcoming language and cultural barriers within the classroom.
Solution
Sterling designed and delivered a bespoke trainer development programme tailored to the specific needs of both experienced and newly appointed instructors.
The programme focused on developing the knowledge, skills and confidence required to deliver effective training within an international learning environment.
Key areas included:
- Learner-centred training techniques designed to maximise engagement and participation.
- Practical strategies for overcoming language barriers and improving understanding.
- Methods for recognising and responding to cultural differences within the classroom.
- Techniques for adapting delivery styles to meet diverse learner needs.
- Approaches to creating more interactive, inclusive and effective learning experiences.
The programme strengthened the instructional capability of Leonardo’s training team and enhanced the support provided to international customers attending training programmes in the United Kingdom.
Following the programme, instructors demonstrated an increased ability to:
- Deliver learner-centred training using proven engagement techniques.
- Anticipate and respond to cultural influences on learning.
- Communicate more effectively with learners whose first language is not English.
- Create inclusive learning environments that encourage participation and confidence.
- Design training materials and activities that improve learning outcomes.
As a result, the programme helped build sustainable internal training capability while supporting a more consistent and effective learning experience for international customers.
“The training has transformed how our instructors approach the classroom. Rather than simply delivering content, they now engage participants in active problem-solving, discussion and reflection. We’ve seen a measurable increase in learner participation, confidence and retention of knowledge. Most importantly, our trainers feel empowered and motivated. They can see the difference they’re making. This programme has raised the standard of training and support we provide our clients.”
Chris Wilson, Customer Training Manager, Leonardo Helicopters Training Academy
Partnership Highlights
- Develop trainer capability within specialist technical environments.
- Support organisations delivering training to international audiences.
- Build sustainable internal training capacity through trainer development programmes.
- Address language, cultural and learner-engagement challenges in global learning environments.
- Improve organisational capability through practical, learner-centred learning solutions.
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