Excitement is in the air at St Gabriel’s following the launch of the brand-new St Gabriel's Flying Club! Senior pupils were captivated by an inspiring assembly on Monday 17 March delivered by Patrick Tame, founder of British Young Pilots (BYP), who introduced this thrilling new co-curricular opportunity. We are now accepting sign-ups, with sessions set to begin at the start of the summer term.

In collaboration with BYP, the Flying Club will offer students weekly sessions with qualified flying instructors. Pupils will develop practical flying skills using desktop simulators and gain theoretical knowledge across a range of aviation-related subjects, including physics, meteorology, navigation, and engineering. Adding to the excitement, students will have the opportunity to pilot a real aircraft each half term — putting their new skills to the ultimate test!

Beyond the thrill of flying, the programme aims to boost confidence, self-esteem, and increase interest in STEM subjects. Pupils who stay with the programme will have the chance to progress through the BYP syllabus and potentially earn a civilian flying qualification — with some even achieving a private pilot's licence before they leave school!

Founded in 2023, British Young Pilots is committed to providing young people with the opportunity to experience the excitement of flight while gaining valuable life skills. The programme is supported by a highly experienced team of retired commercial and military pilots, eager to pass on their knowledge and passion.

Excitingly, BYP recently acquired an Ikarus C42 training aircraft, equipped with a Ballistic Parachute Recovery System (BRC), ensuring safety and reliability during training. This marks a key step in BYP’s mission to create sustainable flying clubs across the UK.

We are thrilled to bring this extraordinary opportunity to St Gabriel’s and look forward to seeing our students take to the skies!