Flying High with Career Aspirations

Sixth Form student James is flying high with his future goals after completing his private pilot’s licence and beginning applications for a commercial licence and a future career in aviation.

James has already completed 70 hours of flying at Perranporth Airfield, including a solo cross-country expedition from Perranporth to Land’s End, Plymouth and Newquay, and has undertaken two fantastic aviation work placements. In July last year, he completed a week at Cornwall Newquay Airport, gaining hands-on experience marshalling and shadowing members of staff. During the same month, he travelled to Biggin Hill Airport to work with Bombardier on their fleet of private aircraft, observing pre-flight checks, towing and marshalling. These opportunities have given him a fascinating insight into both the commercial and private aviation sectors and have cemented his desire to work in the industry, a passion that began in childhood, attending airshows with his dad.

James passed his private pilot’s licence with flying colours, achieving a 90% average across the nine theoretical examinations. He hopes this will prepare him well for the 26 examinations that await him through the Ryanair Future Flyer Academy and the Skyborne Integrated ATPL training he plans to begin in October, after completing his A-Levels.

James is studying Physics, Business Studies, Core Maths and Geography at A-Level and has enjoyed the wealth of options available at Truro School. He has found the one-to-one support and small class sizes invaluable.

His future plans with the Ryanair programme will see him travel to Gloucestershire for initial ground school training before spending six months in Florida to complete the required 150 hours of flying time in a Boeing 737. James is excited by the opportunity to take people around the world and the sense of responsibility that a career as a pilot will bring. The course will lead to both UK CAA and EASA licences. His co-curricular experiences at Truro School have helped prepare him for these responsibilities, including participation in the ACHE Mentor Course and self-defence classes, as well as roles as Geography Prefect and Assistant Tennis Coach. Alongside this, he has been an Air Cadet with 730 Squadron in Truro. Together, these experiences have built the confidence and leadership skills needed to progress in the aviation industry.

Alongside his passion for aviation, James has kept himself busy with entrepreneurial ventures, working as an Assistant Manager at his family’s business, Porthtowan Tourist Park, and launching his own coffee and crêpe van on site. J’s Coffee and Crêpes opened in April 2025 and successfully completed its first summer season. James runs the day-to-day business, employing and managing two members of staff, as well as completing his own accounts and administration.

We wish James the very best of luck with his applications as he works towards completing his commercial pilot’s licence.