PPL Ground School

zuutroy

I tried a search and a Google on this, but I couldn't find a definitive answer.

I want to get going on my PPL and basically, I'm wondering if attending classes for ground school is compulsory.

I have 2 small kids so doing 9-5 Sat and Sun is not an option, but I do have a good bit of free time during the week during which I could study and watch videos etc.

If I could just buy the course material, cover it myself and do the exams that would suit me much better.

Thanks!

ned14

Just completed ground school myself.

Our CFI (Chief Flying Instructor) clarified that there's a minimum of 30 hours classroom time required, in addition to self study. You must then be signed off by the CFI on the application form as competent enough to take the exams. You can't apply otherwise.

martinsvi

That's true, you need to be signed off by your school, however, I'm not sure where is the 9-5 sat/sun idea coming from? As far as I know most ground schools will do a mix of work day evenings/weekends depending on what people want. Last session that was running at my club was weekday evenings only. I'd say call up number of schools, tell them your story and see what they have on offer, most clubs tend to be very flexible and will go a long way to suite people's needs. Even private tuition is possible sometimes, as long as the instructor is representing a school and can sign you off

zuutroy

OK that's good to know. The place closest to me advertises weekend all-day courses. I wasn't sure if there's any flexibility.
I don't even mind paying a few quid extra if I could complete the required hours during the course of one week during business hours.

pepe the prawn

Atlantic in Cork run a two week full time course and also a part time evening course. Not sure what evenings or for how long but may be worth giving them a call if you're in the Cork area.

zuutroy

In Dublin unfortunately but thanks for the info.