Ground School

When embarking on your PPL(H) journey, many of our students find the most daunting part of the training lies in the written element… THE EXAMS! There are 9 multiple-choice exams (see list) that you must pass before you can be recommended for your PPL(H) Skills Test. Whilst it may be possible to complete these exams on a 5 day intensive course it is not something we recommend. Spreading the exams throughout your training allows you to focus on each subject at your own pace and gain a greater depth of knowledge, putting theory into practise regularly and making it stick! Another tip would be not to ‘out-fly’ your theoretical knowledge as this will delay achieving various flight training milestones such as; AIR LAW is a requirement before your FIRST SOLO and NAVIGATION prior to a SOLO CROSS COUNTRY etc.

We have been approved by the CAA as a Theoretical Knowledge Examination Centre and as such we are able to conduct your exams in-house. Previously ‘written’ these exams have now been digitalised and are carried out under supervision in the flying school. The Radio Telephony Oral exam is also conducted in-house but by a CAA approved RT Oral examiner where you will role play using the radio.

Study time is estimated at around 100 hours to complete the theoretical knowledge exams. We recommend you break this time down into more manageable, bite-sized chunks, focusing on one topic at at a time and ideally in parallel to your flight training. In addition to the theory for your flight exercises, your instructor can also offer advice as to your study for the written exams. Study can fulfilled at home, at the flying school, one-to-one with your instructor or at our FREE bi-weekly group sessions (more on these options below).

Mentors

Another aid to your training would be to take advantage of our mentor scheme. A qualified pilot to guide, support and encourage you as you progress through your PPL(H) course. We are lucky to have our own ‘home grown’ mentors, previous students now building towards the next chapter of their flying journey or simply enjoying flying for fun. This pool of knowledge means we are able to find the right guide for you. The mentoring scheme is unique to Elstree Helicopters and many friendships and business relationships have been cemented by this rewarding and worthwhile experience.

One to One Ground School

These personalised sessions allow you to choose the topic you would like to focus on or you can be guided by your instructor as to where there maybe gaps in your knowledge. Tap into your instructor’s wealth of experience and expertise in tailoring the tuition to suit you and make it easier to retain the information. Together you can build a plan for learning and create a schedule. Whether it’s a one off session prior to an exam or a complete course we can help.

To find out more about how One-to-One Ground School can help you head over to our dedicated page or to book email info@elstreehelicopters.co.uk

FREE Ground School

Held monthly our FREE evening Ground School was devised by Capt. Paul White as he realised that by simply learning in as a group often reduces the pressure of studying. These group sessions are also a great opportunity to get advice, guidance and support from students past, present and even future and therefore makes the theory more manageable, more enjoyable and a far less challenging task!

To find out more head over to FREE Ground School or to register please email training@elstreehelicopters.co.uk