British Young Pilots Take to the Skies - Almost!
At the start of this term, a number of boys eagerly signed up for the British Young Pilots Commoner, an after-school activity offering the extraordinary opportunity to learn the fundamentals of flying. Over the weeks, they have developed their aviation knowledge, practised cockpit procedures, and honed their skills in preparation for a real flying experience.
Yesterday, the group travelled to Popham Airfield for the much-anticipated highlight of the course: taking to the skies in a real aircraft. The excitement (and nerves!) was palpable as the first three boys climbed aboard and experienced the thrill of flight for themselves. Unfortunately, the weather had other ideas. As clouds descended below the safe flying limit, all further flights had to be grounded. Although this meant the first three boys enjoyed only a short time in the air – and the others were unable to fly at all – the group demonstrated remarkable maturity in the face of disappointment.
Undeterred, the boys threw themselves into the impressive range of ground-based aviation activities on offer. They tackled simulator challenges, all completed (and passed!) their Flight Test in a professional-grade simulator and even dismantled and rebuilt an aircraft engine – all without instructions! Their enthusiasm, teamwork and resilience were a credit to them.
Despite the weather’s best efforts, it was an inspiring morning, and the boys should feel incredibly proud of how they represented themselves and the school. We are currently looking at rebooking for an alternative date so that all the boys are able to take to the skies.
Becca Higham
Deputy Head (Academic).
