Ben, I've never implied that if you have a degree you will 100% get a job. What I've tried to imply,is that being educated to a higher level will in the long term be more beneficial not just for flying but for life. It's also away of processing applications, your enthusiasm will not be projected to an administrator in the HR dept. ! Sorry but it's a fact - they find it an absolutely mind numbing experience.
So many variables can bugger up your career as a pilot too. a recession, loss of medical, politics etc..the list is endless.
I know there is a industry saying that once your in your in. However, you only have to look at this website to see how many extremely qualified (pilot terms) and they are unemployed.
The problem is that when you are a pilot it is difficult to transfer to another occupation (one that pays the same).
Having a degree/ trade is an "Insurance Policy" and unfortunately times have changed. HMG now expects at least 50% of 18 year olds to go to Uni. That's an hell of a lot. We also live in a global market. Eastern Europeans are vastly higher educated than we are (soviet hang over) and are willing to work for lower wages (search Ryanair T+C). In India, the same.In China, the same.
If you don't consider Education worth while now, I would seriously consider it in the future. May be an Open Uni degree once you've settled into that jet job. I think they do Airline Managment/Operations stuff. That would be considereable ammunition on the CV for when you go for that DFO/Chief Pilot job in the future.
Thanks for the wishes.
Orvil