G'day and thanks to everyone that has contributed to the thread.

I have been away from my computer for a few days and as a result, did not see the thread grow as it went along.

It has been interesting to read.

I guess I am in the school of "teachers etc" who teach because I like to and because I seem to be able to do it. It is stressful and tiring but it is also rewarding. I have also found that I have learned far more than I have ever taught. Teaching causes me to question not only how to do things but why. This in turn has lead me to try to learn a bit about how just about everything in my planes works at least at a basic level. I like to pass this on to my students as well. I find that if they know "why" they are more able to know "how".

As I mostly teach on glow powered models, I also teach them how to start their engines and how to tune them and also some fault finding. New comers really hate to have an engine they cannot start or which deadsticks regularly. Safety is also a big consideration. All too many of us start an engine then reach over the prop to remove the glow starter or make some adjustment. I don't like blood so I make sure they don't get into those habits. I also teach the "procedure turn" early in the process so that their normal reflex is to turn away from the strip and the pits should anything go wrong. We also learn and practice dead stick landings once they can land.

But I think the most important thing I do is to keep a level voice and never be critical of their performance. I do point out errors and suggest corrective actions but I never raise my voice or suggest that my student is hopeless. Gentle encouragement works far better especially with my older students.

In Australia we have an award scheme. Once a pilot can safely start his plane, take off and fly a simple pattern, he can apply to be tested for his Bronze Wings. This is, in essence, a basic award that says the beginner is now able to fly safely on his own. Later on, some pilots do the Gold Wings. This requires some ability in aerobatic flying but the main criterion of the test is to see that the pilot is always in control of the plane. Gold Wings pilots are eligible to attend an Instructor's course which then makes them an official instructor who can pass others at the Bronze and Gold Wing levels. It is not necessary to have the Instructors qualification to do teaching though.

Thanks again for contributing to this thread.

Michael from Oz