Training standards for new Air Traffic Controllers at [Location]

The reporter has raised a concern regarding reduced training standards for new Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) at [Location].

The reporter believes that there are trainee controllers sitting their final endorsement checks despite notes in the trainee reports from on-the-job instructors (OTJIs) indicating that the trainees are not yet ready.

The reporter provided an example where they became aware that one trainee was put forward to final check despite concerns from multiple OTJIs over the previous fortnight about their work rate and appreciation for the traffic picture. However, the check went ahead and was conducted on a day where a significant weather event occurring elsewhere meant there was minimal to no traffic, and the controller was successfully checked.

The reporter provided a second example where they were made aware of a new endorsement given despite the controller issuing a descent clearance to one aircraft and having a different aircraft read it back, which was not detected. The line leader was advised but advised the Check Controller to moderate the check to a pass.

The reporter is concerned that these types of errors would ordinarily result in trainees undergoing further training/supervision prior to being endorsed. However, the reporter believes the current lack of ATCs is resulting in a push from Airservices to endorse controllers before they are ready. The reporter states that one manager said, 'We have been checking to the wrong standard. We need to lower our expectations or people won't pass'.

The reporter acknowledges that new controllers cannot be expected to be perfect but the reporter believes that the check standard has dropped from pre-COVID standards.