Introduced in 2007, the Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship provides young adults from the ages of 14 – 18 years living in the Gloucestershire / Wiltshire / Oxfordshire/ Berkshire area the opportunity to experience career options available within the aviation sector. The ethos is to provide Scholars with that vital initial experience that will put them on the first rung of the ladder to their chosen career path. Funded by Cotswold Airport owner, Ronan Harvey, the Scholarship programme has already helped change the lives of over 70 previous scholars helping them embark in an Aviation based industry, whether it be Military, Commercial flying, Engineering or Air Traffic Services.
Mr Harvey’s daughter, Suzannah Harvey, CEO of Cotswold Airport said, “We were thrilled that so many young people applied for a place on the 2016 programme. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by all who have taken part in previous years is a clear indication of just how much of a difference this scheme makes. We are anticipating another good year in terms of the number of young people applying and I would encourage any young person with an interest in a career in aviation to do so. Not only is it a fantastic experience but it really helps the students take their first steps towards what can be a very rewarding career in aviation, whilst allowing them to build contacts and make new friends at the same time.”
Throughout the Scholarship, scholars will receive aviation ground school, flying lessons in a range of different aircraft and experience at first-hand the work of air traffic controllers, Airport Operations and engineers, whilst receiving guidance from aviation professionals and visiting blue chip organisations such as Rolls Royce and a nearby Commercial Airport.
To mark the 10 year anniversary of the Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship, the flying hours are being increased to 10 hours over 10 days (previously there have been around 8 flying hours over 8 or 9 days). The Scholarship will run for two weeks over the summer holidays, from Monday 31st July until Friday 11th August 2017. Previously Scholarships have take place over the Easter holidays but this can prove to be limiting for potential applicants who have to study for upcoming exams.
Applications close on 19th March 2017, with candidates successful in making the interview process informed towards the middle of May.
Application forms can be downloaded from the Cotswold Airport website (www.cotswoldairport.com) and anyone with questions is invited to contact Toni on 01285 771177 or email her at: [email protected] .