The thing is that the RAF will loose alot of potentially good pilots because although people are dedicated and focused and do want to fly more than anything, they are not stupid and will look at other opportunities which are more attractive, especially when you account for the length of commitment.
Do not get me wrong I am not angry with the RAF, i chose to decline the scholarship because i did not want to do it any more since the commitment seemed too long.
Instead i am saying why dont the RAF offer slightly more support given that at the start of the scholarship most are only 17!
May be allocate them a 'buddy' who is a recent graduate of Cranwell so they can ask questions, or offer them the chance to visit their local base?
And yes i have moved on and found something to do with my life thank you.