Age worries
 

Hi, I've got an interview with NAT's on Monday and i just thought i'd ask for some help, as most of the people on here seem to be pretty clever and helpful :) I have visited two airfields, but at one someone suggested my age could be a problem for me. I'm only 18 and my A levels are starting tuesday, and i was wondering if anyone else had been in a similar situation to me and if anyone had any ideas on how i could use my age as an advantage.
Thank you for your time
Matt

Hi

Age can be a problem for some, but certainly not for everyone - I have seen some postings recently from 18year olds who've passed their interviews.

I am awaiting my interview (next week). This is the second time I have applied, first time I was 18, just completed a-levels, and unfortunately I failed due to "lack of maturity/personal impact when pushed for a decision" and was advised to apply again in a year. But that was just me, and I'm hoping that won't be a problem for me nearly 9 years on!!!

I guess that, due to your age you should expect to be tested in this sort of area during the interview, but forewarned is forearmed. My advice to you is to be confident in yourself, but equally not over-confident - if you can manage that right!!!

If NATS weren't going to recruit any 18 year olds, they wouldn't let you go through the selection process, so it's up to you - good luck:D

Good advice Sla. If they didnt like what they saw, you wouldnt've got this far.

Just be yourself and it'll be fine.

With regards your age, current recruitement is taking a long (as always) time. It took 2.5 years for me to get in, from initial letter to start of course, so if you get cornered maybe play that one as a last resort.

With ref licence, I'm sure someone will correct me if Im wrong, but you have to be a minimum of 18 to get a student ATCO and a min of 20 to achieve your first validation? I think the info is in the ANO somewhere, but I dont have time to check.

All the best, be sure to let us know how you get on.

Bri.

Brian81 is right regarding the licence.

ANO Art.92 (1) (b)

The CAA shall not grant:

(i) a student air traffic controller's licence to any person under the age of 18 years;

or

(ii) an air traffic controller's licence to any person under the age of 20 years.

But bear in mind that your course (by the time you get on it!) lasts for about 18 months, and the time it takes to get your first validation, you're going to be at least 20. So, don't worry about the age. As "sla" says, just concentrate on being confident in your ability.

Good luck with your interview. I have mine a week Friday!

Take care