I'm starting to think I've been rather lucky in my training!!
Despite having been one of those who thought you couldn't take a Permit type abroad
I have been lucky enough to have used all runways at my base (EGKA) which has led me to consider the best approach in the prevailing conditions. I have also been introduced to several grass only aerodromes. On the way back from my Skills Test, my examiner was even pointing out various smaller fields and strips I should make a point of visiting.
I am absolutley horrified that an instructor should never have landed at a grass field / strip and to actually try to persuade people it's dangerous is surely dreadfully wrong?
Granted, I now have 0.7 hours more tailwheel time than my instructor (total is 0.7 hours!!) but he is, by his own admission, unable to afford to look at alternative types of flying cos of his low wages. But he has always stressed that I should visit all types of airfield and I will continue to broaden my experience.
I am also maybe lucky with the school/club I am with cos I am allowed to go into some smaller / unlicensed fields. I read recently that many are not allowed into fields like Popham. Again have been encouraged to visit there (if only for the recommendation that they do nice cakes!!)
Surely even budding airline pilots should have the knowledge of landing into grass fields? Or is the system so concentrated on pushing out button pushers that we will soon be trusting our lives on a commercial aircraft to someone who has only flown a restricted type and to a restricted type of runway? I guess if EASA have their own way this will be how it is. Very sad.
Makes me feel very uneasy.
Monocock
The club you are thinking of is Clacton Aero Club. They do an 8 hour course (or longer) to introduce pilots to tailwheel and farm strip flying.
And yes I am looking forward to it immensely!!