11-Year-Old Beechwood Park Pupil Takes the Controls of an Aircraft During First Flight

A Year 6 pupil from Beechwood Park has experienced the thrill of taking the controls of an aircraft after completing his first flight through the school's British Young Pilots co-curricular programme.

 

Eleven-year-old Charlie Meadows took to the skies on Saturday 30 May from Two Two Fly at Little Gransden, enjoying a 30-minute flight in a C42 Microlight. Under the supervision of an experienced pilot, Charlie was able to take control of the aircraft for much of the flight following take-off and even assisted with aspects of the landing.

After several weather-related postponements, the flight proved well worth the wait.

Charlie's mother said:

'Charlie's flight with the flight club at school finally happened today! He had a great time. He did most of the flying after take-off and around 80% of the landing. He was VERY excited afterwards.'

Charlie said: 'Flying the plane was one of the coolest things I've ever done. I couldn't believe I was actually helping to fly the aircraft and take part in the landing. I was really excited afterwards and I can't wait to go flying again.'



The experience was made possible through Beechwood Park's partnership with British Young Pilots, an organisation dedicated to inspiring young people through aviation and providing opportunities to develop confidence, practical skills and an understanding of STEM subjects.

A spokesperson for British Young Pilots said:

'One of the most rewarding aspects of the British Young Pilots programme is seeing young people discover a passion for aviation. Experiences like Charlie's first flight help build confidence, resilience and a real sense of achievement. Giving students the opportunity to take the controls of an aircraft and experience flight first-hand often creates memories that last a lifetime and can inspire future careers in aviation, engineering and STEM-related fields.'

Christian Pritchard, Headmaster of Beechwood Park, said:

'At Beechwood Park, we are committed to providing pupils with opportunities that broaden horizons and spark ambition. Experiences such as this allow children to step beyond the classroom, build confidence and discover interests that could shape their future aspirations.'

The British Young Pilots programme forms part of Beechwood Park's extensive co-curricular offering, giving pupils the chance to explore aviation through practical activities and real-world experiences.

For Charlie, the opportunity to take the controls of an aircraft was an unforgettable experience and one that has fuelled his enthusiasm for flying.

June 2026