DATES and details for its 2016 aviation scholarship have been announced by Cotswold Airport.

The Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship, which launched in 2007, offers local scholars from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire, between the ages of 14 and 18, the unique opportunity to experience all career options available within the aviation sector. The ethos is to provide them that vital initial experience that will put them on the first rung of the ladder to their chosen career path.

Susie Bennett who manages the scholarship program on behalf of Cotswold Airport said: "During the scholarships, students will receive tuition at the airport`s aviation ground school, including flying lessons, experience at first-hand the work of air traffic controllers, flying instructors and engineers, whilst receiving guidance from aviation professionals heading blue chip organisations such as Rolls Royce and Messer's Buggati Dowty."

Funded by Cotswold Airport owner Ronan Harvey, the scholarship programme 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 control.

Following the success of the 2015 scholarship, Cotswold Airport has increased the numbers from 10 scholars to 12 for 2016.

Applications can be submitted between October 1 and January 31 2016.

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, which happens during the second week of February. From that interview process 12 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 2014 programme that we will be increasing the intake to 12 students on the 2015 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."

The scholarship programme will run next year from Tuesday March 29 to Friday April 8 each weekday. Friday 8th April is the formal presentation day when parents, local communities and VIPs come to support the scholars and witness them receiving their certificates.