Sam flies high at BRNC for work experience

A student from Kingsbridge Community College, who has an ambition to be a Royal Navy pilot, has been given an insight into what his future may hold at Britannia Royal Naval College.

Sam Roberts has spent two weeks at the world-renowned College for work experience. 

He was invited to join the current group of budding pilots and observers for lessons on the different types of aircraft operated by the Fleet Air Arm, the rules and regulations for flying and the communications between the bridge of ship and the aircraft on landing or take-off.

Sam said:  “I’ve always wanted to join the Armed Forces and I’m looking to be a pilot.  I’ve had a chat with one of the staff here and being an observer does sound quite good fun as well.”

During the second week Sam was invited become involved with the Cadets final maritime leadership exercise. 

The Cadets live and operate in small boats as a simulated Task Group for a four-day stabilisation mission.

Sam’s interest in flying was sparked at the age of 13 when he joined the Air Cadets and went to a summer camp at RAF Benson where he flew in a Merlin helicopters. 

Later Sam joined the Combined Cadet Force at Stoke Damerel College in Plymouth, where he was studying for his GCSEs. 

He decided that the Royal Navy section was the one for him and found out that the Royal Navy also operates a fleet of Merlin helicopter.

Sam said:  “I came to BRNC with school a couple of times as a member of the CCF.  Everyone has been very friendly this time. 

“It’s very, very busy here which I didn’t quite expect.  Being here has definitely motivated me and I’m going to apply to join. 

“I’m hoping to do my application in the new few weeks and then get my aptitude test out of the way.  If everything goes to plan I’ll come here in September 2018.”