Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholars to receive certificates on final day
The 12 scholars who were awarded places on the 2016 scholarship programme are: Becky Loveday aged 18; Vasco Henriques aged 17; Aliya Jannaty aged 17; Ellie Beckett aged 16; Ethan Doyley aged 14; Ryan Beazer aged 16; Avineesh Suppiah aged 15; George Croot aged 17; Matt Antonio aged 17; Ben Payne aged 14; Aaron Jones aged 15; James Preece aged 15.
‘The Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship' was launched in 2007 and offers local scholars from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire, between the ages of 14 and 18 years old, the unique opportunity to experience all career options available within the aviation sector. The ethos is to provide them 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 many scholars, helping them embark on an aviation based industry whether it be military, commercial flying, engineering or air traffic services.
Antonia Silk, who manages the Scholarship programme on behalf of Cotswold Airport said "During the scholarships, students will receive tuition at the airport`s aviation ground school, including flying lessons, experience at first-hand the work of air traffic controllers, flying instructors and engineers, whilst receiving guidance from aviation professionals heading blue chip organisations such as Rolls Royce and Messer's Buggati Dowty."
Mr Harvey`s daughter, Suzannah Harvey, CEO of Cotswold Airport said: "We are thrilled with the levels of interest from the many keen young applicants wanting a place on the scholarship programme. I am very excited for the 12 successful scholars who have deservedly won their places on this year's 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. 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."
Later in the afternoon (of Friday 8th April) there will also be a rare flypast over the airport by Peter Teichman of Hangar 11 in a P40 Kitty Hawk (above).