You bring up an interesting point, kiwibob72. Instructors can be invaluable in helping a neophyte learn the ropes early on and to develop proper RC etiquette in the field. Where I was there were no trainers. I learned through building FF rubber powered stick models, then CL, then single channel RC, and after multi-channel proportional. I lived in places where the nearest club was practically out of reach.

Instructor besides giving practical stick time can also help the student with proper preparation, preflight, understand the frequency board system, no fly zones over the field, in flight etiquette with other flyers, and continued mentoring, etc. Also, it helps in the learning curve as crashes can be inconvenient and expensive, and sometimes downright dangerous.

That little 6 oz. electric flying at 35 MPH (57 kmh) might not do much damage if it hits something. Take a 5 lb. (2.4 kg) airplane flying at 70+ MPH (115+ kmh) has considerably more momentum and has greater potential for harm.

So, qualified instructors and experienced mentors are a valuable resource.