Sending solo
I'm really not in a hurry to send students solo and I tell them so right up front. When they are comfortable flying the helicopter and not just slightly competant I send them solo. Even then I want well executed full touchdown autos without the student shutting his/her eyes in the flare waiting for the bang! Yes, I've had some of those. Like most instructors I've had students who do a great job with me sitting next to them but go to pieces on their own. I was sent solo in a helicopter at 11 hours. Crazy when I think about it now. I just didn't know enough.
There's no hurry, they have the rest of their life to fly solo.
Regards,
Chopperpilot47