I couldn't imagine being in CATC on a big course with alot of other big courses around. I found the place claustrophic and would equate it to like going back to secondary school as an adult.
I've had people ask me about my opinion concerning them going for NATS posts they've seen advertised and I'll always advise:
Don't sell property to go, I struggled and spent a fortune to get back on the ladder.
I'd advise youngsters to go to Uni if they can afford it or get a trade before giving their life to NATS.
Anyone leaving a good job, don't burn bridges, make sure you have enough experience under your belt in your profession to be marketable when you want back in. I was lucky here and started back the day I left NATS.
Be prepared to be a NATS pawn.
I could go on. I've no idea what these people are on about when they talk about great college days. On 203 we were one of the first on the new courses (then), I can imagine it being alot harder nowadays.
We had a course of 11 but were expected to pair up on the simulators. hilarious.
As an adult the lucky ones are the ones who go down with partners or children, and rent a house, as they can have their own personal space.
A final straw among many for me was when some nosy sod open the letter containing my P45 in the locker room. That's the sort of place it is.
I think candidates giving up things should be given a more balanced view about the place on forums like this before they give up security, property, shares savings etc.
good luck to you, work hard.
