S88, yes, I agree about the A-levels and being a quality pilot without some random certificates. All the way through college the tutors tried to put me off my 'unrealistic' dream and send me to university to be a 'sales manager' or something similar. All I want to do is start my career and take the selection tests now, but it's going to be around a year of waiting until I've passed my A-levels. But i'ts going to have to be the way for me unfortunately, especially with the competition, even if at the end of the day A-levels don't make you a better pilot and team member. I applied to the Fleet Air Arm back when i was 19/20 and did very well with the aptitude tests for pilot selection at Cranwell and passed for pilot. However I was told I'd have next to no chance when I went down to officer selection at portsmouth due to my poor A-level results, so yes I can do a good job of flying, no I wasn't the 'type' to be flying. Shame.
I think you've done well for yourself after sixth form and clearly have the right attitude regarding your career, it's just a shame a lot of the oppertunities we are presented with at this early stage are adamant on them for the most part, but Hopefully, your experience of airline ops and commitment will go a long way at the interview process. Hope it goes well for you.
