I wonder how many who have been called for the second stage actually have a PPL(H) or even just a few hours in the book towards it? Just from the point that, if you don't, what the hell do you actually say when the board ask you why you want to fly helicopters for a living?!?!
As posted on the advertisement for the Bond sponsorship scheme:
Is previous flight training experience or a PPL required?
No. It can sometimes be a useful indicator of an applicant’s interest in flying, although we do understand that many applicants may not have had the means or opportunity to take flying lessons.
I don't think the lack of a PPL(H) or rotary hours should count against a candidate. Fixed-wing training still develops skills relevant in RW flying, and not everyone knows they want to be a helicopter pilot from day one (we all want to be jet jocks when we start - that's how it works, right?
)
As for the military comment - even they start off with FW training!