Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Trusted Flight Training Partner in Warwickshire
South Warwickshire Flying School has been a cornerstone of aviation excellence for over four decades. Established in 1981 and family-run since 1989, we provide comprehensive flight training programs at Wellesbourne Mountford Aerodrome, a historic site with a rich RAF heritage. Our courses, including the UK Part-FCL Private Pilots Licence (PPL(A)), National Private Pilots Licence (NPPL(A)), Night Rating, and IMC Rating, are designed to equip aspiring pilots with the skills and knowledge required for both recreational and professional aviation. Our location in Warwickshire, just minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon, offers unobstructed airspace ideal for efficient training.With a team of CAA-certified instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to personalized instruction, we blend traditional expertise with modern techniques. Our students benefit from flexible learning options, including audio-visual ground training and integrated study materials. We maintain strong partnerships with local accommodations and aviation organizations, ensuring a supportive environment for both domestic and international trainees. Our track record of producing competent pilots, combined with our transparent pricing and inclusive fees, underscores our dedication to quality and accessibility in aviation education.
Services
Private Pilot Licence
National Private Pilot Licence
Night Rating Course
IMC Rating Course
Discovery Flights
Flying Scholarships
Instrument Training
Solo Flight Preparation
Ground School
Aviation Theory
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We offer 41 years of proven expertise in aviation training since 1981.
- Our family-run operation ensures personalized attention and consistent standards.
- CAA-certified instructors deliver both theoretical and practical flight training.
- Transparent pricing includes VAT and all home landing fees.
- Ideal training location with unobstructed airspace and dual tarmac runways.
Associations and certifications
- Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
- The Air League
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
What people say
Fantastic experience
Friendly and professional staff
Highly recommend
Memorable flying experience
Excellent pilot training
Services
Private Pilot Licence
Our UK Part-FCL Private Pilots Licence (PPL(A)) course provides 45 hours of comprehensive training, including dual instruction and solo flight experience. Designed for aspiring pilots seeking non-commercial flying privileges, the program covers navigation, instrument flying, and cross-country operations. Students gain hands-on experience with modern aircraft and benefit from integrated ground school facilities.
National Private Pilot Licence
The National Private Pilots Licence (NPPL(A)) offers 32 hours of focused training for UK-only flying privileges. This condensed program suits pilots with specific operational needs, covering essential flight skills and regulatory requirements. The course includes dual instruction, solo cross-country flights, and preparation for UK airspace operations within defined limitations.
Night Rating Course
Our Night Rating course delivers five hours of specialized training, including three hours of dual instruction and solo night landings. Designed for qualified pilots seeking to expand their capabilities, the program covers night navigation, instrument appreciation, and safe low-light operations. Ground school sessions ensure comprehensive understanding of night flying regulations and procedures.
IMC Rating Course
The IMC Rating course provides 15 hours of instrument flying training, including 10 hours of sole reference to instruments. This advanced program enables pilots to operate in instrument meteorological conditions, covering IFR procedures, cross-country navigation, and theoretical examinations. Training prepares pilots for real-world scenarios requiring precision flying in challenging weather conditions.
Discovery Flying Lesson
Our Discovery Flying Lesson offers a 45-minute hands-on introduction to aviation, including pre-flight briefing and cockpit controls demonstration. Ideal for first-time flyers, the experience includes guided flight control under instructor supervision and a post-flight certificate. The lesson serves as a gateway to full pilot training programs and includes optional study materials for continued learning.
People
Rodney Galiffe
Principal, Accountable Manager
With decades of aviation experience, Rodney oversees all operations and regulatory compliance at the flying school. He ensures training standards meet CAA requirements and maintains the school's accreditation.
Jon Davy
Head of Training
Jon manages the training curriculum and instructor team, ensuring students receive structured, high-quality flight education. He coordinates course delivery and maintains training standards.
Ian Stevenson
Staff Flying Instructor
As a CAA Flight Examiner, Ian delivers practical flight training and assessments. His expertise ensures students develop the skills required for safe and competent piloting.
Lucy Youdell
Flying Instructor
Lucy provides hands-on flight instruction and mentorship to students. Her patient approach and technical knowledge contribute to the school's high student success rates.
Richard Brew
Part-Time Flying Instructor
Richard delivers personalized flight training sessions, drawing on extensive operational experience to guide students through practical flying challenges and skill development.
Questions
What flight training courses do you offer?
We provide UK CAA-approved courses including PPL(A), NPPL(A), Night Rating, and IMC Rating. Discovery flights and flying scholarships are also available for beginners.
How long does pilot training take?
PPL(A) requires minimum 45 hours over several months. NPPL(A) takes 32 hours. Night Rating needs 5 hours and IMC Rating requires 15 hours of focused training.
Are your flight instructors certified?
All instructors are CAA-certified with extensive experience. Many serve as examiners, ensuring training meets the highest regulatory and operational standards.
What makes your flying school unique?
We combine 41 years of family-run expertise with modern training facilities at a historic aerodrome. Our transparent pricing includes VAT and landing fees, with flexible learning options.
Can I visit before booking training?
Yes, we welcome prospective students to tour our facilities. Contact our operations desk to schedule a visit and meet our instructors.
Do you accommodate international students?
While primarily UK-focused, we support international trainees through local accommodation partnerships and flexible training schedules at our accessible Warwickshire location.
Reviews (6)
Pattie Paul
Dec 22, 2019
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My husband had a 1hour flying lesson today at this flying school. He thoroughly enjoyed it, the instructor was very good. He explained everything to my husband and this made it a lot easier for my husband to take the controls. He said he certainly learnt alot today and really appreciated the help and guidance from the instructor. Many thanks
Patricia Paul
Solihull
Patricia Paul
Solihull
Warren Evans
Dec 04, 2019
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Wow what a day I had today. I have had a love for flying for many years and never had the chance to be able to take it up. My wife and daughter bought me a flight lesson for my 50th birthday. Alan the instructor was brilliant he allowed my daughter to fly with us he took the plane into the air and let me take over the controls while in the air until he landed the plane. I would highly recommend this experience if like me you have wanted to do this it's a great experience. All the staff are friendly instructors are very professional thank you Alan for an amazing flight.
Nicky Murray
Aug 14, 2019
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My son had a flying lesson here last week 25/5/19 and wow ALL the staff were so friendly and helpful just want to say a massive a massive thank you to the pilot that took my son up ( Richard Brew) for being so amazing with my son who is autistic.
Darren Price
Jan 25, 2019
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If you're looking to take flying lessons or simply interested in aircraft and flying in general then I wholeheartedly recommend South Warwickshire School of Flying at Wellesbourne. The shool has a relaxed and friendly feel to the environment and provides great opportunities for young aspiring pilots. A big thank you to Rodney and everyone at SWFS.
Tracey Martin
Dec 16, 2018
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Fantastic flying experience for my daughters 21st birthday. We cant rate this highly enough, thank you Dave for giving her the controls and making this one of the best things shes ever done. Well worth the money.
Dean Sheares
Nov 15, 2018
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Fantastic experience from start to finish. Great briefing from my instructor. Even better when he told me hell do the take off and landing and youll pretty much do most of the flying. Well done guys and a big thank you to Alan.
