...this industry seems to be dominated by your bank balance.
Which is fortunate otherwise there would be an even larger glut of un-employed pilots. However, flying isn't that unique. Someone has to pay for a Gas Council registration course and to get a Part P certification takes a fair bit of time, effort and money. I'll also take a guess that a graphics student also has to "pay" for their course as well. The reality of modern life is that if you want someone else to pay for your education, you have to earn the right (or failing that, have the right connections).