Four young people from Perth have just taken to the skies as part of a new initiative set up by aviation youth charity, Take Off. These aspiring pilots are all taking part in a scheme that provides ten hours of dual flight training for young people aged sixteen to eighteen
“Learning to fly brings a huge sense of satisfaction and achievement to anyone and the skills and decision making that are involved in flying transfer to many aspects of life, from acting and thinking responsibly and independently, to developing good judgement and situational awareness,” says past Pilot contributor and spokesman for the charity, Ian Grosz. Take Off scholarship winners will be provided with “exposure to aviation in an exciting way, which may lead to a new and unexpected direction for some of the young people involved. “
Flight training is being provided by the Scottish Microlight Flight Centre and, providing further opportunities, the Scottish Aero Club has extended youth membership scheme to scholarship winners. This summer, Take Off aims to put a total of eight young people, selected from four Perth State Secondary schools, through its flying scholarship scheme. It has thus far secured funding for seven and still very much needs the support of the flying community to help raise the remaining funds.
The charity plans to continue the scheme in Perth and will also be launching a gliding scholarship program in Aberdeenshire in 2014. To support Take Off and learn more about it does, go to www.take-off.org.uk
