Groundloop - you are right, we do need to change. It has been suggested that we (i) have multi-choice examinations in first year; (ii) don't have any first year exams, examine in second year; (iii) assess by coursework rather than exam. The target is 85% retention after 4 years. Compounding, that means a chop rate of 5% per annum. Yes, maybe.
But the education system is another thread in its own right. Dis, you should try to get flying if that's what you want to do. If you want a degree go to uni. However.....
....if I may badly paraphrase Lord Trenchard; 'gentlemen you can fly or you can f$%k - but you cannot f$%k and fly'