NORTHERN IRELAND STUDENTS TAKE TO THE SKIES AGAIN

University students in Northern Ireland are being given the opportunity to soar, with membership of a new Universities’ Air Squadron.

The fledgling Squadron has been established at Aldergrove Flying Station and was a big hit at the recent September Freshers’ Fairs.  On offer is membership of a unique university ‘club’ which offers its members the chance to experience an incredible range of activities, from learning to fly, sport, adventure training and travel, to developing leadership and team work skills.

The Province has been without a University Air squadron for some years and the Royal Air Force is now delighted to be able to provide that opportunity to Northern Ireland students again.

The Northern Ireland Universities’ Air Squadron (NIUAS) provides fantastic experiences for students without them having to dip into their student loan – not only does it offer the members free flying lessons, for example, it also provides an allowance for attendance, expenses and travel.  It also provides opportunities for under-graduates to develop their skills and earn qualifications which will help their CVs to stand out as they enter the world of work.

There is absolutely no commitment for the NIUAS members to join the RAF on graduation, although anyone interested in that as a potential career route would be guided and mentored.  The Officer Cadets have a privileged opportunity to learn what life is like within the Royal Air Force and there is real value in building that level of understanding amongst the graduate community … wherever their careers may lead them in future. 

To find out more about membership of the Northern Ireland Universities Air Squadron call 028 9445 5363, e-mail [email protected] or visit raf.mod.uk/universityairsquadrons.