In August 2026, after 18 months of study, I completed my UK CAA ATPL(A) theoretical training with Bristol Groundschool, passing all 13 examinations at the first attempt with an overall average of 98.3%, including eight scores of 100%.
Studying alongside full-time work was a substantial commitment and demanded consistency over a long period. BGS’s courseware and progress testing gave me clear structure and reassurance, while preserving the flexibility I needed to fit my studies around the rest of my life.
The course material is comprehensive, clearly presented and designed to develop a proper understanding rather than simply prepare students to pass examinations. The combination of self-study content, recorded webinars and classroom revision weeks worked extremely well, making even the more challenging—or occasionally eccentric—exam questions much easier to approach. That said, I fear I may never look at grapes bought in a tropical market quite the same way again.
The revision weeks were a particular highlight. The instructors’ knowledge, patience, humour and real-world experience brought difficult—and occasionally very dry—subjects to life, while providing welcome human connection during what might otherwise have been a fairly solitary 18 months.
That personal approach extended to the whole BGS team. Whenever I needed help, I received a friendly and helpful response. A special mention must go to Henry Blight: there was a real sense of camaraderie in knowing that the person helping me navigate exam bookings and the inevitable stresses surrounding them was also working through his own ATPLs.
Since sharing my results, I have received many kind messages of congratulations, along with questions from other students about how best to tackle the ATPLs. My advice has been consistent: a methodical approach, sustained effort and a willingness to ask questions are essential—but so is choosing a course that directs that effort effectively. BGS provided the structure, teaching and support that allowed me to do that.
Completing the ATPL theory was undoubtedly the most demanding stage of my training so far, but it was also enormously rewarding. It has given me a firm theoretical foundation as I move into the practical stages of my training. I remain genuinely grateful to everyone at Bristol Groundschool and would recommend BGS without hesitation to anyone beginning their ATPL studies.