Whirly,
Why do you link grading with competition?
He/she does not need to have a series a 'straight As' in order to get a PPL
He/she does have to demonstrate the required standard in order to be put forward for the test and again during the test in order to get a licence.
Grading simply is that - a clear comarison between the standard demonstrated and the standard required.
Perhaps what you really what to say is that there should only be two grades - meets the standard / doesn't meet the standard. However, it is hard to show progress in that case while still not quite demonstrating the required standard.
I doubt if many here has seen a properly developed flying course that has every element broken down into simple objective elements.
As an example -
Top up the oil;
a) Correctly determines the oil level
b) Knows the maximum and minimum quantity required
c) Selcets the correct grade of oil for the conditions
d) Adds the required amount and secures the cap
e) Makes appropriate entry oin tech log
Lots of clear elements that make up just the simple topping up of the oil. grade the new guy and they will score mostly Cs and Ds but once shown the task, there should be only As and Bs...........unless they forget then a C highlights the requirement for some refresher.
Just an example.
Grades are used in the PPL written tests. They demonstrate that the required standard has been met.
Regards,
DFC