Please read: I need your help.
 

I completely xxxxed up my GCSE's, especially Maths, due to a severe lack of study. Indeed, I didn't actually gain a 'C' in the subject, although I did in two (I am planning to re-take Maths). However, whilst this is so, I studied GNVQ Intermediate in Business at school (thus meaning I took single Science as opposed to double). I achieved a Merit, which is equivilent to two B grade GCSE's.

I'm currently in my third year at college. In order to study 'A' Levels, I opted to re-take GNVQ Intermediate Business, in which I gained a Distinction (equivilent to two A grade GCSE's), instead of re-taking my GCSE's. Thus in theory I have 6 GCSE passes; 2 C's, 2 B's and 2 A's (made up of GCSE itself and GNVQ). Once I complete my Maths re-take, I'll have in theory 7 GCSE's, of which 3 will be real ones, whereas 4 wouldn't be actual GCSE's, rather GNVQ.

Do airlines accept GNVQ as an alternative or a complement to the traditional GCSE, if it exceeds the basic requirements? Also, would an airline realistically accept someone with a C grade Maths GCSE?

Having successfully completed the Business course, I decided to study Law, Politics and Economics/Business (in addition to the obligitory General Studies) 'A' Levels. The courses are going reasonably well, and am predicted B/C, C, C/B and B respectively.

Out of choice, I'd prefer not to initially go to university, rather work full time and save up to obtain my PPL. Would an airline look down at someone without a degree, even if that person meets the basic requirements and has a PPL?

In conclusion, I'd like the following answered if possible:

1. Do airlines accept a GNVQ as a direct alternative to, or a complement with, GCSE's?

2. Would an airline realistically look down at an applicant if that person has a PPL and meets the basic acedemic requirements?

Finally, I wear glasses. As such, I'm unsure as to whether I meet the visual requirement. Should I go see my specialist?




[This message has been edited by Wild Rain (edited 21 January 2001).]

I'm afraid I know nothing of GNVQs but I would reccommend improving your maths as it does help later on and the airlines do like it. Not necessary to go to Uni. No problem with glasses but there is a minimum uncorrected vision requirement (not sure of details). Do not be put off and apply anyway.

Hi there Wild Rain

Speaking from experience i can safely say th that GNVQ's can be used in place of GCSE's as i have attended BA selection Process and when i asked them they said that my Avanced GNVQ Distinction was more than adequate in the place of lacking GCSE's
Hope this helps,
PS: one more point i would go and apply for an aviation (CAA)medical to assertain wheather or not your glasses will be a problem i bet they are'nt but its better to be safe rather than finding out down the line when you have forked out countless amounts of cash!!!
Keep Flying mate !!!

Hi there

Speaking from experience i can safely say that GNVQ's are acceptable in place of GCSE's but it depends on the airline. I attended the BA selction and apptitude day and they confimed over the phone that my Advanced GNVQ distinction was more than adequate in place of a lacking GCSE.

PS - One more point i would apply for an Avaition Medical ASAP to ensure that youre eyes are'nt a problem i bet there not but it safer to chek noe that further down the line when you have forked out countless amounts of cash !!!
Keep Flying.......