Four local students are believed to be the first WA to gain their commercial pilot licence for drones, as a part of their high school studies.
Comet Bay College introduced its Technology and Operations Drone Recreation Course last year to give students access to certified training, which has been delivered on-site at the College campus.
Design and Technology teacher and drone instructor Clay Woolcock said the qualification was a boost for students seeking employment in a range of fields, from photography to the military.
“In the past decade, there has been a massive increase in civilian operation of drones,” he said.
“We have developed a drone-based program which will allow students to develop skills in drone flying, an understanding of the applications for commercial drone operations and an understanding of the engineering and mechanical systems of drones.
“Students have engaged in extensive theoretical and practical studies, which has a strong focus on safety, liability and legislation.
“It is an outstanding achievement for the four students who chose to sit the licence, which is optional. They created history at Comet Bay College by becoming the first students in WA to gain drone licences through high school studies.”
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