Top U.K. aviation universities: an interview with Caledonian Advanced Pilot Training Ground School
We spoke to Phil Croucher, Head of Training at Caledonian Advanced Pilot Training Ground School (CAPT GS), and asked all about the organisation’s courses, history, alumni and more.
An interview with CAPT GS
ACS: Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions, Phil! First off, what courses do you offer aviation and aeronautics students?
CGS: We offer EASA PPL, CPL and ATPL for aeroplanes and helicopters, and Instrument Rating courses.
ACS: What makes CAPT GS’s courses for aviation and aeronautics unique?
CGS: We take a no-nonsense approach to education and our study material is probably the best available. We don’t just prepare students for their exams – our course material prepares them for the tech interview and subsequently their careers. All instructors at CAPT GS are working pilots, which means our students are trained by accomplished professionals with contemporary, real-life experience.
ACS: How long has the aviation course been on offer?
CGS: We’ve been running the aviation course for 10 years now.
ACS: Have any famous or noteworthy professionals in aeronautics or aviation studied through CAPT GS?
CGS: Westland Helicopters has used our course material. As have Transport Canada, EASA, the Royal Air Force and Embry-Riddle, amongst others.
ACS: Introduce us to some of the faculty staff – any noteworthy names/achievements?
GCS: I’m the owner of www.electrocution.com, which has provided support information for PC technicians (and pilots) for over 30 years, and has thousands of regular readers. For advanced pilot or accelerated aviation training, we offer The Helicopter Pilot's Handbook, Canadian Professional Pilot Studies, CARs in Plain English, and EASA Professional Pilot Studies, to name but a few.
ACS: How many students do you take on each year?
GCS: Typically 100-150, sometimes more.
ACS: How long are each of the courses?
GCS: It depends on the student, but typically six months.
ACS: As one of the top universities for aviation and aeronautics, we’re guessing there are many aircraft lovers at the institution. Care to let us in on your favourite aircraft?
GCS: There are a few… Bell 47, Bell 212, DHC-2 Beaver, Bell 206 and the Spitfire.
ACS: What are you most excited about when it comes to the future of aviation?
GCS: Technology, and specifically the use of simulations.
ACS: How is CAPT GS preparing its students for the future of the industry?
GCS: We strive to provide updated study materials to cater to the latest developments in the industry.
ACS: If there was one piece of advice you could give to prospective aviation and aeronautics students, what would it be?
GCS: Study as much as you can in the initial stages!
ACS: For CAPT GS alumni, what’s the most common career path? Private aviation, commercial aviation, military and civil, or a combination of all?
GCS: A combination. Our students go on to work in many different industries – no single one is more common than the other.
ACS: How should students go about applying to CAPT GS? Any tips for up-and-coming students?
GCS: Simply go to our website: www.capt.gs. Top tip? Don’t rush to get out of the exam room!
ACS: Anything else you would like to add about your aviation courses or the industry itself?
GCS: We use traditional notes and progress tests, with a little CBT. The average pass mark is 87%, with a high first-time pass rate. Testimonials are on the website at www.capt.gs
Are you looking to start a career in aeronautics or aviation? Speak to us about applying for a course and we’ll do our best to provide some helpful advice. ACS also provides aviation and flying scholarships for many of the best aviation institutions in the U.K. and around the world. Find out more on our Aviation Scholarships and Student Grants page.
