Name: Joshua Shrosbree
Former school: Humphry Davy School
Courses studied: A Level Geography, Physics, Environmental Studies and AS Maths, Electronics.
Current job role: Second Officer/Co-Pilot at easyJet
Truro College was a natural progression for Joshua, whose passion for Physics and Environmental Sciences was clear from the outset. After attending the College’s Open Events, he was convinced that Truro would propel him further in his academic journey: “It was a natural progression for me. I knew I wanted to study Physics and Environmental Sciences, and on Open Days, I discovered that Truro had excellent facilities for these departments. I knew it was the right choice for me and well worth the commute.”
Joshua also expressed great enthusiasm for the practical focus of his A Level studies. The hands-on learning experiences, especially in Physics with its “Core Practicals”, enabled him to bridge theory with real-world experiments by meticulously documenting his findings. He particularly valued the dynamic approach in Geography and Environmental Sciences, where frequent field trips allowed him to witness natural processes firsthand. In his second year of Geography, the flexibility to choose between physical or human geography topics and write a research paper on a subject of personal interest further enhanced his learning, providing him with valuable insights into real-world research and methodology.
After studying at Truro College, Joshua embarked on an impressive journey in aviation: “I continued to work to support my flight training at Perranporth, which I had begun alongside my A Levels at weekends. I gained my private pilot’s licence, started studying for my 13 ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot Licence) theoretical exams, and built experience flying light aircraft. Around October 2023, after completing all my exams, I began my commercial pilot training, upgrading to a twin-engine aircraft and soon qualifying with my frozen ATPL—essentially a newly qualified airline pilot’s licence. I recently undertook my Airbus A320 training and am now in the right-hand seat of a 77-tonne jet flying across Europe and North Africa!”
Looking ahead, Joshua has set his sights high in the aviation world: “My career goal is to obtain my fourth stripe (captain) in about five years; easyJet has an excellent time-to-command program. After that, I’d love to train the next generation of Aviators. It’s a real passion of mine!”
He also offers heartfelt advice to prospective students: “Don’t give up! There are plenty of people in the same boat as you, even if you feel alone. Student services at college are always available to help or offer advice. If you’re struggling, don’t struggle alone, ask questions. Chances are, if you have a question, others in your class would benefit from the lecturer’s insight. Today, aviation is more accessible than ever, with numerous scholarships available that can take you from never having sat in a plane to being in the right-hand seat in just 18 months. They’re competitive, but if it’s your passion, the airlines will see that.”
Reflecting on his time at Truro College, Joshua believes the experience was instrumental in developing key skills like resilience and self-study. “In aviation, you’re expected to arrive at your aircraft already understanding the plan and how we’ll execute it. Reading ahead in textbooks might seem trivial, but it prepares you to ask the right questions and deepens your understanding. Resilience is built on perseverance. A Levels are challenging exams that demand significant motivation and study, much like ATPL exams. They can seem daunting, but by breaking them down into manageable pieces, you can build the resilience needed to tackle even the most challenging tasks.”
He concludes by praising the campus environment and dedicated lecturers: “The campus was spacious and diverse, providing quiet areas for study and social spaces to unwind, essential for preventing burnout. The lecturers were second to none in their support; I always knew that if I had a question or issue, I could reach out to someone who genuinely wanted the best for us.”
