OAP.
Am a little confused by your description since, IIRC, the old flying scholarship scheme was run by the RAF and one would apply via the AFCO and filtered candidates were selected by going through Part 1 of OASC. (Aptitude tests, aircrew medical and interview.)
Since the RAF Flying Scholarship gave way to the Air Cadet Pilot Scheme, what you describe seems a lot more pertinent now, where trainees are selected at the regional level, rather than by OASC. The loss of gliding training now means that there's no way of determining whether an applicant has any kind of aptitude and, accordingly, pass rates at Dundee are far lower than before. More than ever, selectors are dependent on the tick in the good lad box from their OCs and the application form and an increasing number of badge-hunters seem to displacing those eager and committed to start a career in aviation.
My big worry is that if/when Pippa Middleton ever gets gliding training up and running again, those who progress farthest will be those favoured by geography rather than ability/aptitude. TBH, it might be time to get OASC involved again so at least applicants are judged by a common, and proven, standard.