My name is Stephanie, and I am a Year 12 Academic Scholar studying Maths, Physics, Psychology and an EPQ. My ambition is to become an airline pilot for British Airways, something which I only considered as an option when I was finally able to travel abroad again after Covid subsided.  

Competition to become an airline pilot is fierce. Blackheath High is incredibly supportive of me in my endeavours, affording opportunities to gain further knowledge of the industry. Recently, the GDST organised a ‘Careers in Aviation’ webinar which provided a fascinating insight into pathways of women working across the aviation sector. We heard first-hand from several very inspiring women, including a test fighter pilot and 777 captain. This made me even further determined to pursue my chosen career, while the speakers were honest about the challenges of training. 

On Saturday 16 November, Sixth Form students had the opportunity to attend the ‘What University? & What Career? Live’ event, where we got to hear from the UK’s leading universities and companies, including British Airways. It was an action-packed day: I visited British Airways to ask them about how to stand out in work experience applications, as well as the CV clinic where I gained understanding about building a CV; I also visited the University of West London stall. Throughout the busy day there were a variety of talks from employers and apprenticeship providers that we were able to watch. Ms Day and Ms Banks attended the event with us, but it was so busy we all headed off to different stalls and sessions!

Outside of school I attend RAF air cadets and volunteer at Biggin Hill Memorial Museum. Both have helped me grow in confidence and I am able to gain valuable experience working as part of a team and am able to harness a wide range of skills. Ms Day strongly encourages us to step outside of our comfort zone and network with professionals and as a result I have been inspired to attend social events organised by Elevate (her) aviation and flight crowd. Being able to gather advice from and chat to people who have so much experience in the industry has been invaluable.  

It is a privilege to be an Academic Scholar at Blackheath High; in the Spring term, senior scholars will have the opportunity to work on an Action Research project. This will aim to find out the impact of different types of feedback used in the classroom. Also in the Spring term, I will run Aviation Society which I am really excited to introduce as a new society in 2025. Some of the areas we will be looking at include conspiracy theories, the coolest fighter jets, and innovative technologies in the world of aviation.  

Alongside my academic studies, I enjoy playing the alto saxophone and participate in Need for Reed and Jazz Band, as well as belonging to Lewisham Concert Band. It is fun to belong to music groups, and playing at home for my own enjoyment is relaxing. 

Written by Stephanie, Academic Scholar, Year 12