M.25
Higher entry academic levels would certainly reduce the numbers hoping to fly. However the present situation requires only finance to enter the industry.
As to passing the ATPL exams, well they aren't difficult. I have a Year10 education and have not had any difficulty passing so far.Those who do fail generally have to wait a week before being able to sit them again.
As far as instructors are concerned there is a huge surplus of instructors. Most schools are employing instructors on a casual basis.
I saw one school advertise instructor internships, I wonder what the catch is there. Perhaps the lady in the article, Wendy Dowe would like to comment. As far as schools poaching other instructors, well what do you expect, some schools pay them peanuts and threat them like s****t.