The Apprentice is another excellent trainer airplane. The advantage over balsa for a trainer is if you demolish the vert stab (for example) it is cheap and quick to replace. It is also an excellent flier.

At 10, I would think it would be wise to have him on a buddy box with an experienced flier.

Also stress safety. Electrics in this size range can really slice a person up, and need to be handled with the same care as a loaded gun whenever the battery is connected.