Sixth-former Shaun Perry is on target for a high-flying career after winning a prestigious RAF scholarship and completing a testing adventure training course.
The Cardinal Newman College student is one of only 25 teenagers from across the UK awarded a £1,000 bursary for academic development and the chance to learn about what it means to serve in today’s Royal Air Force.
The 17-year-old, who wants to be an engineering officer in the RAF, was put through his paces at Bramley Lakes Adventure Training Centre, near Norwich.
During the week-long course, he took part in climbing, canoeing, abseiling and expedition planning exercises designed to develop his team-work and leadership skills.
After completing the course, which is part of the RAF’s Scholars Award, Shaun, of Astley Crescent, Freckleton, said: “It taught me a lot about teamwork and leadership.”
The talented youngster, who was chosen for the scholarship from more than 200 applicants, added: “The course taught me how to take a close look at myself – my strengths and my weaknesses.
“It is sometimes very easy to be critical of others, but it is very hard to be critical of yourself. But that’s what you have to do if you want to improve yourself.”
Retired Wing Commander Pat Carter, who set up and helps runs the courses, said: “ We get the very best youngsters here, and we encourage them to identify their strengths and weaknesses.”
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