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Posted on: 16th JulNew for September 2025 A Flying Club Launches at The Downs School!
FILM: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pP4zEoZT9Do
We’re incredibly excited to announce a brand-new co-curricular opportunity for students at The Downs School: a Tuesday Flying Club, launching in partnership with British Young Pilots (BYP) from September 2025.
Session length: Clubs run for 1 hour every Tuesday. All years are welcome.
Tuesdays 3:30 to 4:30 or 4:30 to 5.30pm
These weekly lessons will be run by a BYP instructor. It will be half theory based and half practical flying skills on a flight simulator.
Simulators: Each simulator consists of an Xbox series X, Thrustmaster controls and pedals, a monitor (usually 30-32") and small sound bar. We have a working ratio of 1 sim : 4 students.
Actual flying lesson: Each term there will be an offer of 2 x 30 minute flying in a real aircraft at £90 each.
From the organisers: "This inspiring club offers students the chance to explore the world of aviation through a unique mix of theory and practical flying skills. Each week, students will take part in a session led by a qualified BYP flying instructor, combining desktop flight simulator training with fascinating lessons covering topics such as physics, meteorology, navigation and engineering.
As part of the programme, students will also have the opportunity to fly a real aircraft every half term putting their skills into action in a safe, supported and thrilling way.
More than just an exciting adventure, flying can have a hugely positive impact on confidence, self-esteem and academic engagement, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths)."
Who is it for?
The club is open to all year groups and is designed to grow with the student. While some may join for a single term to experience something new, those who stay on can work through the BYP syllabus and take official exams along the way. For students who are truly committed, it’s even possible to leave school with a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL).
Cost and Logistics
As this is a specialist club run by an external instructor, the cost is £330 per term, payable on sign-up. Optional flying lessons in real aircraft are booked separately through BYP, who recommend two 30-minute flights per term at £90 each.
We will do our best to timetable sessions so that as many students as possible can take part alongside their other commitments.
If your child dreams of flying or simply wants to try something totally different the BYP Flying Club is a truly unique opportunity we’re proud to offer.
For more information: British Young Pilots
