For what its worth I think its ridiculous the way that NATS treats you guys, what with the bond to make sure you can pay back your training if you have a bit of trouble!! They should take you on as student ATCOs and be done with it.
As a civvy ATCO I have worked beside a lot of people who would have made damn fine civil controllers, with a lot of experience, being turned down because of their age.
I know that there was once a quick conversion course to help you transfer over the great divide, and with the current shortages at some units, I wonder why the powers that be don't re-instate it. Maybe someone with more brains than I can explain it?
Don't worry abouyt signing for the mobile contract with NATS if they offer you a job, the only way you will get posted is if you join a very long queue at most units!!
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To infinity and beyond