A teenager from Essex is hoping his career takes off by swapping football for flying.
Kyle Arch, 18, from Colchester has just completed a level three business diploma at Suffolk New College.
His course is run alongside the Ipswich Town Foundation education programme and by following this pathway he gets to play football as well as study.
During his two years in Ipswich, Kyle played on the hallowed Portman Road turf in a friendly match between staff and students.
Now on completion of this business and sport pathway – he has decided to go from catching crosses to the cockpit by moving to America with the aim of becoming an airline pilot.
He will shortly be ditching the penalty box in favour of black boxes when he travels to New Hampshire to follow a lifelong dream of becoming a commercial pilot.
On his time at Suffolk New College, Kyle said: “I really enjoyed the course, the people, the staff and the football – it’s just been a great experience. The staff are amazing – they are always there for you.”
In terms of his career move, Kyle said: “I’m going to the ATP flight school and will be training in a place called Norwood in Boston. I used to go there and plane spot as a child as my dad lives in America. It will be really cool. I’ve never flown before. My dad used to have a dream to be in the RAF – so I guess that is where some of the interest has come from.
“It (flying) is just something I’ve always loved. I like the thrill of being able to control something that big and knowing I’m going to be responsible for those passengers and make it the best experience I can for them is exciting. I’ve always thought nothing is impossible – if you want something it doesn’t matter what you have to sacrifice – you should go and do it – there is nothing in this world that can stop you.”
His business tutor Ashleigh Hurrell added: “This is a really exciting opportunity for Kyle who is showing amazing determination to follow his dreams.”
Robert Peace is the Head of Education & Employability at Ipswich Town Foundation. Robert said: “This is a great progression opportunity for Kyle. It shows the diverse opportunities for students studying on the business course. We wish him all the success for the future.”