The award was founded by the most Honourable Sybil, Marchioness of Cholmondeley CBE, in memory of the late Sir Philip Sassoon, her brother and former Secretary of State for Air. Since its inception, the income from the fund has provided flying instruction for selected aircraft technicians who were deserving of support in accomplishing a flying scholarship but were unlikely to be awarded a conventional cadetship and/or receive flying instruction within the course of their duties. Evolving over time, the award in its current form provides the winning recipient with tuition and up to £6,800 of funding towards the attainment of a Light Aircraft Pilot’s License (LAPL). Originally offered to the Apprentice Schools, the award passed to graduates of the No.1 SofTT and has remained open to its trainees on an annual basis since. Given the prestigious and limited nature of this opportunity, competition for the award is fierce and each year the School nominates its highest performing trainees for consideration and entry into the demanding interview and aptitude testing process.
“When I was a young boy growing up in the suburbs of Ghana (West Africa), I used to observe planes lift off from a distance and marvel at the technology and science behind them. I acquired an obsession with learning why they behaved the way they did.”
AS1 Stephen Abordo. Speaking about his early inspirations for aviation
Having originally joined the RAF in the HR domain, Stephen’s passion, and desire to know more about aviation principles led him to re-muster into the Engineering branch, and his appetite for development and growth was clear from the outset. Stephen graduated from No.1 SofTT in the summer of 2023 and throughout his time in training had stood out as a stellar student, both for his academic performance on course and for his extensive participation in extra-curricular activities. Stephen had an impressive background, having volunteered at the Youth and Music ministry, been a member of the STEM programme, as well as attended both the Fire and Police cadets. Also possessing a strong interest in politics, he had previously been a Youth Parliament Representative for the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and whilst at Cosford was selected to participate for a remote engagement session with the Defence Permanent Under Secretary. An avid sports enthusiast, Stephen participated in a number of sporting activities including basketball in which he played for the RAF Cosford team and well as local club. To directly support his interest in aviation and flying, he became a member of both the RAF Cosford Microlight club and RAF Shawbury Gliding Club, gaining as much exposure to aircraft in support of his passion.
When requests for the 2023 PSFA nominations were circulated, Stephen was an obvious candidate from the outset and for him, this was the opportunity to fulfil a lifelong ambition. As such he fully committed himself to the selection process, exhibiting the very best characteristics and ultimately being successful as the 2023 recipient.
“Winning the Phillip Sassoon Flying Award is a testament to the dedication and commitment poured in. It is a validation of the countless hours of training, the sacrifices made, and the unwavering passion for aviation. This award is not just a recognition of my individual achievements, but also a celebration of the collective efforts of all those who have supported and believed in me.
As I reflect on this momentous achievement, I am reminded of the responsibility that comes with it. I am committed to continuing my journey with the same level of enthusiasm, professionalism, and integrity that has brought me to this point. I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams and aspirations with the same fervour and determination.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who have played a role in shaping my journey and making this award possible. I am honoured to be named a recipient of the Philip Sassoon Flying Award, and I look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”
AS1 Stephen Abordo.
Having graduated from No.1 SofTT, Stephen is currently part of 70 Sqn, supporting the A400M aircraft, and is currently undertaking an OOA in the Falklands. An incredibly worthy winner of the PSFA, Stephen is wished well in his future endeavours, and I have no doubt that his flying scholarship will be one of many achievements during what promises to be a fantastic career.
