London Biggin Hill Airport and aviation charity fly2help welcomed 10 young aviation enthusiasts to its annual Aim High scholarship program last week.
Aim High is a week-long educational program featuring activities designed to give young people a behind-the-scenes insight into the wide range of roles available in the aviation sector.
The initiative aims to encourage more young people into STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, which is of particular importance due to the serious shortage of engineers and professionals the sector is facing globally. You can read more about this topic in the October issue of Business Airport International.
The individuals, aged between 15 and 18, were all from local schools and youth organizations. Before securing a place, they had successfully completed a comprehensive application process that included an interview.
Leading the program, Colin Hitchins, community engagement manager, London Biggin Hill Airport, commented, “In the short time since the London Borough of Bromley agreed to extend the airport’s operating hours, we’ve seen a marked increase in the number of job opportunities at the airport. With rapid growth comes the need to invest in training, and to inspire the next generation of aviators and engineers. Aim High is just one of the ways we will continue to work toward this at London Biggin Hill Airport.
“This year, the program also included a trial flight lesson with EFG Flying School, which we hope will further inspire these young people to pursue a career in aviation by getting some hands-on experience and a grounding in the kinds of core skills that will help to grow their confidence.
“At the end of the week, we invited each participant along with their parents or guardians to a ceremony, and presented them with an Aim High certificate to help kickstart their way into their chosen field within aviation.”
