Bridgewater School Flying Club

We are delighted to announce the launch of the Bridgewater School Flying Club, an exciting new partnership with British Young Pilots (BYP) as part of our Extra-Curricular and Enrichment Programme. This unique co-curricular offering gives students the chance to combine classroom learning with hands-on flying experience – taking their studies quite literally to new heights.

Each week, students will take part in a dedicated class led by a BYP flying instructor. Lessons combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, giving our young pilots a well-rounded foundation in aviation.

Sessions cover:

• The physics of flight and aerodynamics
• Meteorology and how weather affects flying
• Navigation and engineering fundamentals
• Practical training through desktop simulators

From classroom to cockpit

At the end of each term, students will have the incredible opportunity to take to the skies from Barton Airfield, applying what they have learned in the classroom to a real aircraft. These unforgettable experiences not only make the theory come alive but also give students the chance to build confidence and put their skills to the test.

While the Flying Club us undoubtedly a fun and adventurous activity, it also offer far-reaching benefits:

• Builds confidence and self-esteem
• Inspires a genuine interest in STEM subjects
• Encourages resilience, focus and problem-solving
• Provides a pathway to recognised civilian aviation qualifications

Pathways and progression

Students from Prep VI to Year 13 can sign up for a single term or continue through the structured BYP syllabus. Those who remain committed can work towards passing civilian flying tests and exams, with the potential – for the most dedicated students – to leave Bridgewater School with a private pilot’s licence.

This journey is made all the more inspiring by Joe Bagshaw, who recently launched the Flying Club here at Bridgewater. Joe began his own flying career in a school-led club and achieved his private pilot’s licence shortly after leaving school. Today, he works as a freelance pilot, proving just how far such an opportunity can take you.

At Bridgewater, we believe that education should extend beyond the classroom. The Flying Club reflects our values of intellectual curiosity, ambition and opportunity, giving students the chance to explore passions and develop new skills. By opening doors to unique experiences like aviation, we help prepare our young people not only for academic success but also for life beyond school.