How a year 12 student balanced study and flight to earn his wings
At just 17 years old, Adrian, a Year 12 student at King’s Christian College, has ticked off a major milestone by earning his Recreational Pilot Certificate, all while completing his final year of school.
His love for aviation began at age 11, sparked by his grandfather introducing him to model radio-controlled aircraft. That early fascination truly took off when, for his 15th birthday, his parents gifted him a Trial Instructional Flight at a flight training school on the Gold Coast, QLD.
“From that moment, the aviation bug bit” Adrian says. That flight marked the beginning of a focused journey toward becoming a pilot!
Juggling flight training with Year 12 studies is no small feat, but Adrian found unwavering support from his school community. “My teachers would ask me every Monday how my flying went over the weekend,” he shares. “They were really supportive.”
Adrian compares achieving his Pilot Certificate to earning a provisional driver’s license, only with a much more spectacular view.
“I kind of have to pinch myself sometimes when I’m up in the cockpit.”
Flight training has had a transformative effect on Adrian. It has helped him build self-confidence and shown him the value of perseverance, “It showed me that I really can achieve anything if I put my mind to it.”
To fellow students, Adrian offers this advice:
“Find ways to turn your hobbies or passions into something bigger. And talk to your teachers, they care about you and want to help you succeed.”
Adrian is already planning his next steps. He hopes to join the Royal Australian Air Force in 2027. Alternatively, he’ll aim to pursue a Commercial Pilot Licence and eventually fly internationally, combining his love of aviation with a passion for travel.
As he worked toward these goals, Adrian completed his flight training with Gold Coast Sports Flying Training, a journey he describes as both supportive and personal.
“The instructors made the process feel really personal, which made achieving my Pilot Certificate even more meaningful”
One milestone he is especially excited for is gaining his passenger endorsement, which will allow him to take his dad flying for the first time.
Adrian, your journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, persistence, and a strong support network. The entire RAAus community congratulates you on this incredible milestone and we look forward to following along on your journey. Blue skies ahead!
