AN opportunity for young people aged 14 to 18 years to learn about careers in aviation is being made through the Cotswold Airport aviation scholarship.

The course, which includes eight hours of flight training, is being offered to local scholars with the ethos of providing them with the vital initial experience to guide them in their chosen career path.

Funded by Cotswold Airport owner Ronan Harvey, the two-week programme, which runs during the school Easter holidays at the airport`s aviation ground school, has already helped change the lives of many scholars, helping them embark in an aviation based industry whether it be military, commercial flying, engineering or air traffic services.

The schedule for the two week course includes flying lessons in fixed wing planes, helicopters, microlights, gliders and some aerobatics. The eight hours flight training each scholar will accumulate can go towards a private pilot's licence.

The students will also receive first hand experience of air traffic services including a session at Global ATS, the air traffic college in Staverton; career-based visits to blue-chip organisations including Rolls Royce to learn about aviation engineering; a careers talk and team building day at RAF Cosford; and visits to many other companies in the aviation industry including including breakdown and recycling of aircraft and engineering.

Out of a past average of 80 to 100 applicants, 20 lucky young people are selected to be interviewed by the Cotswold Airport board of directors. From that interview process twelve finalists and one runner up will be chosen.

Mr Harvey`s daughter, Suzannah Harvey, CEO of Cotswold Airport said: " We were thrilled that so many young people applied for a place on the 2015 programme that we will be increasing the intake to 12 students on the 2016 scholarship. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by all who have taken part in previous years is a clear indication of just how much of a difference this scheme makes. We are anticipating another good year in terms of the number of young people applying and I would encourage any young person with an interest in a career in aviation to do so. Not only is it a fantastic experience but it really helps the students take their first steps towards what can be a very rewarding career in aviation, whilst allowing them to build contacts and make new friends at the same time."

Applications for a place have to be in by February 19.