What scholarships are available?

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Helping Dreams Take Flight offers two types of aviation awards each year:
• Powered Flying Scholarships, providing five hours of dual flight instruction at an approved UK flying school.
• Gliding Scholarships, providing introductory or early solo-progression gliding training at an approved UK gliding club.

These awards are designed to help people take their first steps into aviation.

 

Who can apply?

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Applications are open to individuals who:
• Are resident in the United Kingdom.
• Are at least 16 years old for powered flying or 14 years old for gliding.
• Are medically fit to fly or glide and able to obtain the appropriate medical declaration.
• Can demonstrate enthusiasm, motivation and a genuine interest in aviation.
• Have not previously received a full Helping Dreams Take Flight scholarship.

We particularly encourage applications from people who may not have otherwise had access to aviation.

 

Do I need previous flying experience?

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No. Both the powered flying and gliding scholarships are designed for those taking their very first steps in aviation. Previous experience is welcome but not required.

 

How do I apply?

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Applications must be submitted through our online application form before the advertised deadline. Incomplete or late applications cannot be considered.

 

What is the selection process?

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All applications are reviewed by the trustees and selection panel. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an online or in-person interview. Selection is based on:
• Your passion for aviation
• Your motivation to learn
• The potential benefit the award will provide
• Your ability to represent the charity positively

The charity follows fair, inclusive selection principles aligned with the Equality Act 2010.

 

What is included in the Powered Flying Scholarship?

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Each scholarship includes:
• Five hours of dual instruction with a qualified flying instructor
• Aircraft hire, fuel and landing fees
• Temporary club membership and insurance for the training period

Training must usually be completed within twelve months of the award.

 

What is included in the Gliding Scholarship?

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Each gliding scholarship includes:
• Gliding instruction at an approved UK gliding club
• Launches and instructor time
• Temporary membership of the gliding club

Scholars will experience the fundamentals of flight, from launch to landing, and may progress towards early solo-standard depending on capability and club availability.

 

Where does the training take place?

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Training is carried out at approved UK flying schools and gliding clubs. Scholars may indicate a preferred location, and the charity will try to accommodate this where possible.

 

What happens if I cannot complete all my training?

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If you cannot complete all allocated hours for any reason, please contact the charity as soon as possible. Any unused portion of the award may be returned to the charity and offered to another applicant. No cash alternative or compensation is available.

 

Are there any risks involved in flight training?

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Yes. Flight and gliding training include inherent risks. All training is delivered by certified Training Organisations, and scholars must follow all safety guidance and instructions issued by instructors. The scholar and the Training Organisation are ultimately responsible for deciding whether it is safe to fly.

 

How is the programme funded?

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Scholarships are funded through sales and generous donations from the aviation community, including The Flyer Watch Company, Skydemon, and Pooleys Flight Equipment, who share our mission to widen access to aviation.

 

Will I appear in publicity or media?

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Scholars may be asked to take part in photographs, video or interviews to help publicise the charity’s work. By accepting an award, you consent to reasonable use of your name, image and story in connection with the programme. Applicants under 18 require parental consent.

 

Will my personal data be kept confidential?

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Yes. Personal information is handled in accordance with UK GDPR and our Privacy Policy. It is only shared with trustees, assessors and approved Training Organisations for the purpose of administering the scholarship.

 

Can I reapply next year?

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Yes. If unsuccessful, you are welcome to apply again in future years.

 

Who do I contact if I have questions?

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For general enquiries, please email info@helpingdreamstakeflight.com