Alumni Profile
Name: Ashley Marshall
Years at Montsaye Academy: 2007-2014
A-Levels Studied: Maths, Physics and Business Studies
Destination:
“Since leaving Montsaye in 2014, I went on to study an MEng
in Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering at the University
of Leeds. The first two years of the course focused on the core
mechanical engineering knowledge and the final two years
consisted of specific aerospace teachings. Aerospace
teachings included: aircraft design and structural analysis, aerodynamics, mechanics of flight and
orbits, design and analysis of helicopters, and the design and analysis of aerospace propulsion
engines. This last point included a bit of rocket science!
Between my second and third year of study, I completed a year-long industrial placement with
Rolls-Royce (jet engine manufacturer) in Derby, where I worked as a System Design Engineer.
The main project I worked on involved standardising the design of the fire, ventilation and
drainage system. This work I completed has already been used to help design the upcoming
UltraFan engine and will continue to be used for future engines. Whilst I enjoyed my time at Rolls-
Royce, I realised that an engineering career was no longer something I wished to pursue.
During the summer between my third and fourth year of study, I completed a nine week long
Aviation Insurance Broking internship with Aon in London. During this internship I was introduced
to London’s commercial insurance market, widely known as Lloyd’s of London. Aviation insurance
deals with the likes of airlines wanting to insure their aircraft fleet, airports seeking cover for risks
created by air-traffic control and ground-handling crews, and manufacturers ensuring they have
financial protection should one of their products become faulty.”
What’s next?
After graduating in summer 2019 with a 1st, Ashley is going to re-join Aon in London as a graduate
trainee on their Insurance, Reinsurance and Risk Management stream, where he will complete
three six-month rotations and undertake the Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII) qualification.
The first rotation will be with the aviation insurance broking team. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my
time at university and feel that my degree, combined with my work experience, has provided me
with a solid grounding to take on a multitude of careers. I am excited to begin my journey with
Aon, and whilst I don’t know whether I’ll remain in insurance forever, I do know that it will only
open doors for me.”
Montsaye Memories:
Ashley says, “It all began at Montsaye! This is where I first learned to apply myself and developed
the same ambition and determination which got me through my degree and allowed me to secure
work opportunities. Montsaye is a school that creates well-rounded students – something that
employers look upon favourably.”