A/G Operators - how to qualify & medical requirements.

[CMM]

Hi folks, I am not sure if I am asking in the correct section and I completely understand that an A/G certificate does not make you an ATCO, but I hope I'm posting in the best place due to the broad question I wish to ask.

Essentially, I am a UK University student, hence I have a bit of spare time - I have always had an interest in aviation and rather than doing the usual hobbies I'd prefer to do something out of the ordinary which is both interesting and different (hence good for a future CV).

I am fortunate enough to attend a University which has an airfield which provides an A/G service closeby, and before approaching them directly I would like to get a little bit of advice so I don't make too much of a fool of myself.

I would like to get my A/G qualification but I am unsure how to go about it, what the training involves, or where the training often happens. Is it on-site training, or do you have to go to a college? What are the costs involved? I am also interested to know whether many A/G fields have the operators as volunteers or if it is a job as I understand some FISOs are full time. Just to clarify, I would be happy either as a volunteer or indeed as a part-time job - money is not the motivation at all.

What are the medical requirements? I am colour-deficiant hence I am worried that this will prevent me from doing yet another thing which I have ambitions for.

Thanks for all your help, and advice in advance.