Why on earth 500hrs P1 when some of the VGS instructors have a panic attack if you ask them to fly outside the ATZ! (Ok, that's slightly tongue in cheek, but you don't need anywhere near 500hrs P1 to fly a Cadet in a Vigilant or Viking).
From what I understand, they are offering scholarships to a select few Cadets chosen by 2FTS to fly with RAFGSA gliding clubs. Sounds like a good scheme for those on or around their 17th birthday that might miss out over the 12 month 'pause'.
LJ