GAPAN J N Somers ATPL Scholarship 2010
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GAPAN J N Somers ATPL Scholarship 2010
The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators is very pleased to announce that, thanks to the continuing generosity of Mrs Phyllis Somers, it is again able to award the J N Somers Scholarship.
Mrs Somers generously instigated the scholarship in 1999 in memory of her husband, the late J N (Nat) Somers, who was a distinguished aviator and a member of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators from 1946 until his death.
All 'Somers Scholars' have secured successful flying jobs with airlines soon after completing their training.
The J N Somers Scholarship 2010, one of the most generous and prestigious awards available to aspiring aviators, will provide funding through GAPAN for a full-time course of Air and Ground studies leading to the award of a frozen JAA ATPL. It includes a JOC/MCC module. The Scholarship covers direct training and examination costs and associated travel & accommodation expenses.
TIMETABLE: - The selection process will be carried out this year, and the lucky winner will begin training in Spring 2009.
- Completed application forms must be returned to the Guild office by no later than 15th June 2009.
6 August 2009: Aptitude Testing at RAF Cranwell for the final 3 or 4 candidates.
13 August 2009: Candidates will be notified of the result.
Spring 2010: Training at a JAA-approved training organisation, selected by GAPAN from the most suitable available world-wide.
- Further information including a summary of the selection criteria and a downloadable Application Form with full details of eligibility can be obtained by clicking on the GAPAN crest below -
More information about the work of the Guild of Air Pilots can be found here >>> GAPAN
A thread about the social side of the Guild >>> HERE
Article about a previous winner >>> The Independent, May 2008
Good Luck!
Tudor Owen
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GAPAN J N Somers ATPL Scholarship 2010
05 Apr 09
GAPAN J.N.SOMERS ATPL SCHOLARSHIP
Hot off the press!
The JN Somers ATPL Scholarship is continuing, closure date for applications 15 June 2009.
See www.gapan.org for full info, (website is down for maintenance at present!)
GAPAN J.N.SOMERS ATPL SCHOLARSHIP
Hot off the press!
The JN Somers ATPL Scholarship is continuing, closure date for applications 15 June 2009.
See www.gapan.org for full info, (website is down for maintenance at present!)
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Excellent news, especially lifting to hear of such generosity at a time when the press is full of gloomy tales. GAPAN truly are a highly commendable organisation.
Scholarships - GAPAN
Best of luck to all applicants, I'm still staggered there were only ~100 last year!
Scholarships - GAPAN
Best of luck to all applicants, I'm still staggered there were only ~100 last year!
Last edited by John Alcock; 7th Apr 2009 at 21:44. Reason: Update website address
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PilotPieces:
I believe GAPAN are quite particular about applicants fulfilling all the terms written on the application form - this ensures fairness for all. The way I interpret the application, as on page one, is that the Class 1 need only be valid on the 15th July 2009, i.e. the medical must be passed (and not revoked) any time in the year leading up to that date.
However, if you do not already have a Class 1, it would be rather difficult to fill out the Medical section on page three. If you're not willing to get a medical done immediately, perhaps you could delay sending off the form until nearer the closing date, when you have taken the Class 1 medical.
I'm almost certain that not getting a medical until after the application process is complete would not be permitted.
However, I'm sure the Guild office would be able to offer the definitive answer, just a phone call away.
I believe GAPAN are quite particular about applicants fulfilling all the terms written on the application form - this ensures fairness for all. The way I interpret the application, as on page one, is that the Class 1 need only be valid on the 15th July 2009, i.e. the medical must be passed (and not revoked) any time in the year leading up to that date.
However, if you do not already have a Class 1, it would be rather difficult to fill out the Medical section on page three. If you're not willing to get a medical done immediately, perhaps you could delay sending off the form until nearer the closing date, when you have taken the Class 1 medical.
I'm almost certain that not getting a medical until after the application process is complete would not be permitted.
However, I'm sure the Guild office would be able to offer the definitive answer, just a phone call away.
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Thanks John, looking to get the Class 1 sorted asap.
Also, in everyones completly honest opinion, what are my chances if I dont have a degree or currently studying for a degree?
Also, in everyones completly honest opinion, what are my chances if I dont have a degree or currently studying for a degree?
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Somers ATPL Scholarship - medical query
Question - Can anyone confirm that the Class one medical has to be issued before application?
Short answer is yes.
The initial application forms are sorted, and successful candidates at this stage are selected and called for the Morrisby type screening, planned for 16 July this year. (09).
All candidates called must actually have their valid Class One certificate at least by this date. No valid certificate actually presented for inspection on 16 July, (or earlier), means no possibility of progression to the next stage. No exceptions.
Hope this is clear now – good luck to all applicants.
Short answer is yes.
The initial application forms are sorted, and successful candidates at this stage are selected and called for the Morrisby type screening, planned for 16 July this year. (09).
All candidates called must actually have their valid Class One certificate at least by this date. No valid certificate actually presented for inspection on 16 July, (or earlier), means no possibility of progression to the next stage. No exceptions.
Hope this is clear now – good luck to all applicants.
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PilotPieces:
I must start by stressing that I can only make guesses to the decision making process. I would imagine that having a degree would certainly be a feather in any applicants cap, however it only makes up a part of the overall impression that someone gives. I'm sure GAPAN will ensure that the winner has the educational ability to perform well during training, but for most ATPL subjects, a good understanding of A-Level maths and physics will suffice, along with the determination to put in the work outside the classroom.
For the large part though, an applicants academic and aptitude ability cannot be changed. What may make the difference is a genuine interest and enthusiasm for aviation as far as your personal circumstances will permit (not everyone can afford a PPL, but membership of the Air Cadets, or gliding, may be a more feasible option).
The only certainty is that your chances diminish rapidly if you don't apply!
Quant:
I think this topic was covered in the JN Somers thread last year (probably a link at the bottom of this page).
Best of luck to all
I must start by stressing that I can only make guesses to the decision making process. I would imagine that having a degree would certainly be a feather in any applicants cap, however it only makes up a part of the overall impression that someone gives. I'm sure GAPAN will ensure that the winner has the educational ability to perform well during training, but for most ATPL subjects, a good understanding of A-Level maths and physics will suffice, along with the determination to put in the work outside the classroom.
For the large part though, an applicants academic and aptitude ability cannot be changed. What may make the difference is a genuine interest and enthusiasm for aviation as far as your personal circumstances will permit (not everyone can afford a PPL, but membership of the Air Cadets, or gliding, may be a more feasible option).
The only certainty is that your chances diminish rapidly if you don't apply!
Quant:
I think this topic was covered in the JN Somers thread last year (probably a link at the bottom of this page).
Best of luck to all
Last edited by John Alcock; 13th Apr 2009 at 16:42. Reason: Sorry if my reply seems a little brusque, Quant. The original reply has been edited by someone other than me!
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Thanks John. I didn't intent to sound too pessimistic, however I can only sit here and think that if there were 100 applicants, I would definetly be in the bottom 50 qualification wise. I have the required qualifications to satisfy nearly all airlines, however I get the impression that GAPAN maybe inclined to choose a degree student.
Why am I not a degree student? Well, 2 years ago I decided that if I just went straight to work, I would get to live my dream far sooner than if I attended University. That and many other sacrifices prove that I want it more than anyone else, but unfortunately I havent video taped the last 5 years of my life.
Why am I not a degree student? Well, 2 years ago I decided that if I just went straight to work, I would get to live my dream far sooner than if I attended University. That and many other sacrifices prove that I want it more than anyone else, but unfortunately I havent video taped the last 5 years of my life.
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Yes I miss the age requirement by a very narrow margin too quant. Quite frustrating, but it's Gapan's responsibility to administer the award how they deem best. So there's nowt more we can do about it.
Great to hear of the pilots (35+) getting taken on by the airlines. I'm assuming they were low houred too.
Great to hear of the pilots (35+) getting taken on by the airlines. I'm assuming they were low houred too.
Well, there are going to be far more than 100 applicants this year now thats it on prune.
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Brillopads!
This is just the break I've been waiting for.
I had a quick butchers at the old form. No specific requirements to use black or blue ink.
But I don't want this chance to go up the pictures before I get a chance to knock 'em bandy with my personality. So are there any tips on what colour ink to write with?
Cheers guys.
This is just the break I've been waiting for.
I had a quick butchers at the old form. No specific requirements to use black or blue ink.
But I don't want this chance to go up the pictures before I get a chance to knock 'em bandy with my personality. So are there any tips on what colour ink to write with?
Cheers guys.
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Where are people seeing this age requirement? I run searches on all the pages relating to it and read through the application form a few times and cannot see a single mention of age. I'm sure that I'm just missing something due to being tired but could somebody please help me.
Looks like I might have to renew my class one medical after all. Damn thing is expiring at the end of May (couldn't have been a couple of months later, could it?!)
EDIT - Google may have found the answer. It looks like they've removed the line about age (and also updated some dates - probably were still using last years form as a template) but Google cache caught the old version anyway so I could read it.
Looks like I might have to renew my class one medical after all. Damn thing is expiring at the end of May (couldn't have been a couple of months later, could it?!)
EDIT - Google may have found the answer. It looks like they've removed the line about age (and also updated some dates - probably were still using last years form as a template) but Google cache caught the old version anyway so I could read it.
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Its just a bit odd, but I dont think GAPAN like me you know. I have 2 exams on the day of the PPL scholarship interview date, both of the days in fact. I rang to enquire, and the lady said the exams were finished by that point, as told by the exam boards. Turns out its physics and maths papers too, so they wont be getting any A-Level students applying it seems... Or very few..
For this interview date, for this J N Somers scholarship I am away on holiday for a fortnight which I booked months ago. Ah well, there is always next year...
For this interview date, for this J N Somers scholarship I am away on holiday for a fortnight which I booked months ago. Ah well, there is always next year...
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Just a hint and a few tips about applications. For some of you this may be one of the first applications that you have made in aviation, and will probably be one of the biggest awards that you have ever competed for. For others you may have done many applications for other positions before. Either way you may find something of use. This applies to the Somers scholarship, and to all the other awards that GAPAN make.
First get the application form, print it onto good quality paper, copy it (perhaps twice), and put the good one away in a plastic wallet for the time being. Get one of the draft copies, and read it through carefully. Fill in all the personal details carefully, and accurately.
In the section about flying experience be sure that all you hours add up correctly to match the total time that you are declaring. If the is a discrepancy either add a note saying why those hours couldn't be included under one of the headings, or check you sums!
In the sections on the last page write some of your thoughts down, as if you were constructing an exam essay, then start to construct the prose. When you have finished ask someone you trust for some advice: a parent; a neighbour; teacher or lecturer at school or university; if you work try asking someone on your HR department. Do a 'neat draft', and get someone to review it for you, and be sure to use good correct grammar and spelling (use a dictionary if necessary).
Practice your handwriting: make this legible. The committee have alot of applications to consider, so make life easy for them. I would suggest black ink; it copies better. Use a good pen, preferably a good quality fountain pen (fill it before you start so you don't have that sort of greying out as it gets empty). Make all your answers as full, and complete as possible. Use full sentences if possible rather than single words.
Finally fill in your final good copy, and get someone to review it for you. If you have to make corrections use a careful crossing out: if you have more than three or four corrections scrap that page and do it again.
Check that you include all the copies, and envelopes that you are required to send. I would suggest that you send the application as a recorded delivery just for your own peace of mind. Keep a copy of the application for yourself, and take it with you to the interview. Read the essay answers before the interview: the panel may well pick up on some of your comments, so you will look a bit of a charlie if you don't remember writing something!
Prior to the interviews go out and buy an A4 folder, probably black, and a set of plastic pockets. Set out all you certificates, and relevant documents in this folder so that they can be easily seen by an interview panel. If you have anything else that you'd like people to see, but are not sure how to bring up in interview you can include them in the folder (letters of commendation or thanks from an employer or something like that). These items will catch the eye of the interviewers, and they can then start some conversation about them. Be modest, but don't be shy. Turning up to interview with a neat folder of documents will look much more organised than a pile of dog-eared certificates in a random order. It will create the impression that you have prepared yourself for the day, and that you really want to be there, and really want the award.
Remember that this is a very generous award: it will allow you to begin your career debt free: not many graduates from university or flying school can say that in this day and age. If you want it you have to really make the effort to convey that to the interview panel, and you have to give the impression in every aspect of your presentation. I don't know how many applicants get seen at each stage, but there is only one scholarship at this level. You have to give yourself the very best chance.
The interviewers at GAPAN (I don't know exactly who is on the panel, so please don't ask me, but as a member of the Guild I know the sort of people who are likely to be) are generally conservative types, so dress accordingly. Avoid excessively loud, bright or particularly fashionable styles. Wear a dark or grey suit, with dark or grey socks (even if you would normally wear bright ones). Clean your shoes, and perhaps even take a cloth to give them a final buff before you get there. Have a hair cut: a short back and sides will grow out in no time once you've got the award! They are also very decent people, and very supportive of younger people in the industry, and really understand that young people coming into aviation are the future of the Guild, and the industry that we are all passionate about. Do some research about the Guilds, especially GAPAN too.
Good luck!
First get the application form, print it onto good quality paper, copy it (perhaps twice), and put the good one away in a plastic wallet for the time being. Get one of the draft copies, and read it through carefully. Fill in all the personal details carefully, and accurately.
In the section about flying experience be sure that all you hours add up correctly to match the total time that you are declaring. If the is a discrepancy either add a note saying why those hours couldn't be included under one of the headings, or check you sums!
In the sections on the last page write some of your thoughts down, as if you were constructing an exam essay, then start to construct the prose. When you have finished ask someone you trust for some advice: a parent; a neighbour; teacher or lecturer at school or university; if you work try asking someone on your HR department. Do a 'neat draft', and get someone to review it for you, and be sure to use good correct grammar and spelling (use a dictionary if necessary).
Practice your handwriting: make this legible. The committee have alot of applications to consider, so make life easy for them. I would suggest black ink; it copies better. Use a good pen, preferably a good quality fountain pen (fill it before you start so you don't have that sort of greying out as it gets empty). Make all your answers as full, and complete as possible. Use full sentences if possible rather than single words.
Finally fill in your final good copy, and get someone to review it for you. If you have to make corrections use a careful crossing out: if you have more than three or four corrections scrap that page and do it again.
Check that you include all the copies, and envelopes that you are required to send. I would suggest that you send the application as a recorded delivery just for your own peace of mind. Keep a copy of the application for yourself, and take it with you to the interview. Read the essay answers before the interview: the panel may well pick up on some of your comments, so you will look a bit of a charlie if you don't remember writing something!
Prior to the interviews go out and buy an A4 folder, probably black, and a set of plastic pockets. Set out all you certificates, and relevant documents in this folder so that they can be easily seen by an interview panel. If you have anything else that you'd like people to see, but are not sure how to bring up in interview you can include them in the folder (letters of commendation or thanks from an employer or something like that). These items will catch the eye of the interviewers, and they can then start some conversation about them. Be modest, but don't be shy. Turning up to interview with a neat folder of documents will look much more organised than a pile of dog-eared certificates in a random order. It will create the impression that you have prepared yourself for the day, and that you really want to be there, and really want the award.
Remember that this is a very generous award: it will allow you to begin your career debt free: not many graduates from university or flying school can say that in this day and age. If you want it you have to really make the effort to convey that to the interview panel, and you have to give the impression in every aspect of your presentation. I don't know how many applicants get seen at each stage, but there is only one scholarship at this level. You have to give yourself the very best chance.
The interviewers at GAPAN (I don't know exactly who is on the panel, so please don't ask me, but as a member of the Guild I know the sort of people who are likely to be) are generally conservative types, so dress accordingly. Avoid excessively loud, bright or particularly fashionable styles. Wear a dark or grey suit, with dark or grey socks (even if you would normally wear bright ones). Clean your shoes, and perhaps even take a cloth to give them a final buff before you get there. Have a hair cut: a short back and sides will grow out in no time once you've got the award! They are also very decent people, and very supportive of younger people in the industry, and really understand that young people coming into aviation are the future of the Guild, and the industry that we are all passionate about. Do some research about the Guilds, especially GAPAN too.
Good luck!