Josh Black – Esher Sixth Form College

Airline Pilot & Air Traffic Controller

Josh remembers studying at Esher as the first time he had proper independence when it came to his studies. “This combined with the varied timetable allowed me to balance my time and study in a way that best suited me and meant I had extra time to spend with friends and work part time, alongside my studies.

School: Hall School Wimbledon

At Esher: 2017-2019

Subjects: Business, Photography, Media Studies

What were your course highlights at Esher?

Studying at Esher was the first time I had proper independence when it came to my studies. This combined with the varied timetable allowed me to balance my time and study in a way that best suited me and meant I had extra time to spend with friends and work part time, alongside my studies.

How did your teachers inspire you?

My teachers were great at keeping me motivated. From day one, they all knew that my heart was set on becoming a pilot. Although I didn’t need specific A Levels, I did need strong results and a good report so I knew I had to be focused. A special thanks goes to my personal tutor, who helped me with my research into becoming a pilot, whilst others helped me to look into university options.

What did you do after Esher?

I had always planned to take a gap year, but as I finished towards the end of 2019, Covid was just around the corner… my plans of travel were destroyed quite quickly. However, I took advantage of the lockdown and got a job as a delivery driver. This played a huge part in being able to afford my pilot training as I was able to save as the world slowed down in 2020/2021. I started my pilot training in Canada, in the Autumn of 2021. The rest is history!

What are you doing now?

At the moment I work full time as a First Officer for a UK based Charter Airline, operating the Boeing 737 My work base is located at London Gatwick Airport, from where I fly all over Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Sometimes I’m deployed away from base and tasked with flying to various destinations around the world. Recently, I’ve flown to Antarctica, the Pacific Islands, and more. I also work part time as an air traffic controller at a private airport in North London. Based in a control tower, I’m responsible for all aircraft movements in and around the airport. This job is super fun, although it can be challenging at times.

What have been your career highlights so far?

One of the biggest highlights of my career journey so far was the opportunity to fly passenger jets at the young age of 22. It was an incredibly special experience. Additionally, I feel extremely privileged to work with a fantastic team and to travel to extraordinary destinations around the world—all while being paid for it!

What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

Keep persevering. Life gets rewarding when you put the hard work in. I also wish I had given more praise and thanks to the people that got me to where I am today. It wouldn’t have been possible without them.