Gliding Scholarship

Gliding Scholarship courses are an opportunity for cadets to undergo further training, hopefully achieve Gliding Scholarship standard and achieve Blue Wings.

Cadets wishing to be nominated for a Gliding Scholarship should let their Squadron staff know or apply online, ideally should have completed a GIC 1, 2 and 3, but this is not mandatory.

Trainees must be 16 years of age at the start the course and will need to be in possession of a completed medical form (RAF Form 6424), these forms are available upon request from local squadron staff.

Trainees attending a Gliding Scholarship Course must be self-motivated and committed to attend the gliding squadron every day that their course is running. Unfortunately due to weather and aircraft serviceability it can be difficult to predict the exact duration. Much will also depend upon the progress of each individual, in the summer months 3-4 weekends is average but in winter this will usually take longer.

At Kirknewton, the course consists of up to 40 launches in the Viking winch launched glider with the aim of completing a set syllabus and achieving a Gliding Scholarship.

Syllabus

• Ground Lessons as Required
• Familiarisation Flying
• Effects of Controls 1 & 2
• Straight Glide
• Winch Launch
• Medium Turns
• Approach & landing
• Stalling
• Normal Circuits
• High / Low Circuits
• Launch Failure Procedures

Cadets showing the necessary aptitude may be invited to progress to 'solo' standard, if weather conditions and time permits.