Cotswold Airport announce new scholarships

Cotswold Airport - formerly RAF Kemble - have announced that applications for its annual Aviation Scholarships are open.

Now in its 11th year, the established scholarship program introduces successful applicants to the broad experiences, roles and careers available in the general aviation community.

The scholarships are open to people living in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bristol and Avon, Berkshire and Oxfordshire, aged between 15 and 18 on the first day of this year’s scholarship , 5 August 2024. No previous aviation experience or background in flying is necessary to apply.

The program includes visits to engineering sites that manufacture aircraft components and companies that are designing and developing the aircraft of tomorrow. Students will receive introductions to airport firefighting, talks on military operations, control tower operations, air traffic service provisions and the opportunity to experience an introduction in learning to fly.

Previous graduates of the scheme have enjoyed a mixture of flights including microlights, light aircraft, and helicopters, along with simulator sessions thanks to the enthusiastic support of the on-site flying schools.

Suzannah Harvey, CEO Cotswold Airport said: “It is exciting to once again announce the launch of our aviation scholarships for 2024.

"I do not take it for granted how lucky I am to get up and go to work at an airport every day, and it’s amazing to be able to share some of those experiences with the aviators of tomorrow.

"Our aim has always been to make the aviation community as accessible as possible, and I see these scholarships as key to achieving that goal.”

A previous scholarship graduate, Verity, said: “The Cotswold Airport 2023 scholarship was truly one of the best experiences of my life, introducing me to aspects of aviation and aerospace engineering I didn't even know existed!

"Some of the benefits of receiving this scholarship included my being able to experience my first ever flight in a microlight and helicopter, which was absolutely amazing.

"The scholars were also lucky enough to be able to visit and listen to talks from many different companies, such as Vertical Aerospace and Starspeed helicopters, as well as receiving lots of resources from the companies such as our Pooley's flight bags, where we received lots of equipment to support our journey into flight, such as flight manuals and logbooks as well as other merchandise. 

"Overall, applying for this scholarship was a fantastic decision that has really shaped my views of what I want to do in future, and I really enjoyed it.”

There will be eight scholarship places available for 2024, and further information and application forms can be downloaded at Scholarships | Cotswold Airport

Last entries must be received by 16 May.