Well chaps, it certainly was not impossible to be a non grad school leaver and get one of BA's "golden tickets", as I was one of those priviledged 20 year olds who got one of the last ones. However, it was slightly too late, as things went Pete Tong just 4 weeks before training was due to start. I'm sorry to say Jez that BA strongly urged me to reconsider my career choices.
What Zimbu says makes sense, the RAF is a great training ground, i'm certainly enjoying it at the moment. However, you will seriously need to improve your banter skills before even thinking of applying!
There is a theme running through here; it's a tough old world and an even tougher industry.
Best of luck though.