The 18th YES Gathering and Its Purpose

Youth and Education Support (YES) is preparing to host its 18th annual gathering to be held at The Aviator Hotel, Sywell Airport, UK on Sat 18^th April 2026. Aimed at showcasing effective approaches to encouraging young people to explore aviation, whether as a pastime or as a professional pursuit.

Upcoming Education Summit

Further information about the Education Summit will soon be available on the YES website, providing details for those interested in attending or learning more about the initiative.

Background: Addressing Recruitment Challenges in the UK

More than two decades ago, it became evident that the United Kingdom was facing difficulties in recruiting individuals to fill roles, particularly within aviation but also across various sectors. Recognising the severity of this issue, YES identified the need for concerted action and began raising awareness, a message they have consistently communicated ever since using the Safety Culture associated with aviation

Ongoing Challenges and Industry’s Role

Despite ongoing efforts, the central question remains: what steps can industry take to reverse these recruitment trends? YES maintains that the solution lies in a coordinated educational approach, supporting and mentoring young people throughout their lives.

The Need for a Long-Term, Widespread Approach

The lack of a broad, sustained effort in the UK has hindered the development of motivation among young people to actively engage in positive community activities. YES believes that everyone should be involved in fostering this enthusiasm, beginning from the earliest stages of childhood, even before children are out of nappies.

YES’s Community Engagement and Volunteer Activities

The members of YES are dedicated to making a difference and bringing joy to young people. Volunteers frequently visit playschools, introducing aviation-themed toys that captivate children and are well received by community leaders such as vicars and youth organisers. This early exposure often leads to families choosing aviation-related gifts for birthdays and Christmas, further reinforcing children’s interest in aerospace.

Inspiring the Next Generation Through Schools

YES volunteers also engage with primary schools, sharing the history and progress of flight. Through these activities, they encourage children to believe in their ability to make a difference and to enjoy creative pursuits like building models, drawing, or writing poetry about aviation.

Continued Support Through Youth and School Programmes

Engagement continues with both male and female youth groups and schools, where focused activities such as STEM or STEAM programmes take place. These often include the awarding of merit badges or prizes in recognition of achievement.

Building Lasting Passion and Bridging the Skills Gap

By the teenage years, the aim is for this passion to be well established and self-sustaining, motivating young people to strive for bursaries and scholarships (in aviation) All of these efforts serve as essential building blocks to help close the skills gap within the aviation industry while instilling transferable life skills nationwide.

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Here is the latest Summary of the 2026 YES Youth Summit

The 18^th Youth Aviation Summit organised by YES

Saturday 18^thApril 2026

The Theme this year is

Help Deliver what we believe in!

Entry is free to delegates who must preregister

The venue

The Aviator, Cirrus Suite, Sywell Aerodrome, Northants.

Registration is also invited for Speakers about Education & Opportunities in the aerospace sector

The Programme will include information and guidance on a wide range of aviation-related activities, careers for young people and especially Young Aviator Flights. Eg where to find a pilot and the support which is available for them to take place via a number of established organisations.

There will be opportunities to find out about

Young Aviators Flying, Airfield Activity Days

Bursaries and Grants

Build-a-Plane Projects Flying Cadets

Gliding Opportunities

Models and Model Flying with the BMFA

Scout Aviation Activities, Air-Scouts and Camps

Specialist Resources and Projects

Training Opportunities for aviation-related jobs

An important aspect of the day will be opportunities to talk with those who deliver these activities, and networking.

Lunch will be available

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All sponsors for the event are welcome to get in contact with YES, or if you would like to know more or even present at the event, please get in contact as soon as you can.

Please register at – Register for 2026 YES Youth Summit

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YES working with World War 1 Heritage Trust

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Dick Forsythe has got enough funding to offer some Educational Days to Primary Schools in Essex in 2026.

He would like more volunteers (see those pictured) to help him bring it all to fruition in 2026. YES Members The Twins, Willie, Stewart Luck and Peter Merrifield are all part of the team, but more volunteers are always welcome to help out.

If you are DBS approved and have spare time and an interest in being a “Classroom Presenter” please e mail –dick.forsythe@ww1aviationheritagetrust.co.uk