Indeed the rotary world was a much more self help case, but I am talking about the 80’s. However, this did reflect the environment we worked in at the time. EG single pilot Puma detachments: self auth, own servicing whilst having a grand time around mainland Europe.
Did my initial A2 on the Gazelle at Shawbury where 3 of us, successfully ganged together to study and self brief prior to examination.
Back to the Puma, C to I (as above) with an A2 check. Further standards check (all self study) recommended testing for A1. Dates booked (on the Sqn), but a little adventure called the Gulf War intervened.
Never did upgrade. My next posting was as a Flt Cdr on the C130….
Me