Hannah,
I don't think you need to justify any benefits of having a PPL its simply that you want to do it. its like sailing boats or climbing mountains. If your parents are not aviation minded they will probably see it as a danger and make excuses not to let you. If they won't let you fly, they probably wouldn't let you ride horses either.
You need to gain exposure to aeroplanes, the ATC is an excellent way and will provide opportunities. Apply for as many scholarships as you can find, GAPAN, the Air League and the Royal Aero Club. Somebody has to win them!
Go to your nearest airfield probably Sleap and see if you can get a Saturday job doing anything associated with aeroplanes. When you get your opportunity at school to do Work Experience see if you can get it at the local aerodrome.
Last edited by Whopity; 4th June 2010 at 12:25.