Drone Pilot Training

CAA Recognised Assessment Entity (RAE)

Online Courses

Online Theory Exams

What we do

Since 2015 we have trained drone pilots to the highest standard to meet the demands of this rapidly growing industry. The UAV Academy is a CAA approved Recognised Assessment Entity providing online courses for both the General VLOS Certificate (GVC) and the A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) remote pilot qualifications. We have seven flight assessment and skills training locations in the UK, including one in Northern Ireland. Our team work hard to ensure that you receive great customer service and enjoy every aspect of your training.

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RAE 1853

Man flying a drone holding a control transmitter

Our Services

The A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) qualification, introduced at the end of 2020, gives you the ability to fly in built-up areas and closer to people.

The A2 subcategory will allow you to ‘fly closer to people’ provided you hold an A2 CofC and your drone weighs less than 2 kg. You will be able to fly in built-up areas provided you observe the distance required from uninvolved people. If you fly a drone weighing between 251g and 500g the A2 CofC will enable you to fly in the A1 subcategory with the only limitation being that you must not intentionally overfly uninvolved people.

There is no flight test or operations manual required for the A2 CofC. You will, however, need to have completed a period of practical flight training which can be either self-training or with one of our instructors.

The GVC Online course allows you to apply for a UK CAA Operational Authorisation which will allow you to fly a drone weighing up to 25kg in the Specific Category.

Our course combines e-learning, and live interactive online training sessions. You can take the formal theory exam online at a time and place to suit you. Once you have completed the theory part of the course you use our Operations Manual Standard Template as the basis for creating your own Operations Manual. Then, when you are ready, you take your half-day Flight Assessment at one of our locations around the UK.

 

We offer flight skills training ranging from basic flying skills right through to advanced skills training for professional pilots wanting to be able to deliver exceptional results to their customers. We have Flight instructors in seven locations around the UK. Call us and ask about a convenient date and location that suits you.

We deliver many private training courses to corporate customers needing to train more than five people. This is very cost effective and ensures confidentiality and training relevant to the aircraft and the type of operations. Our corporate customers include: –

  • Aggregate Industries
  • British Army
  • Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service
  • Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Northern Ireland 
  • Friends of the Earth
  • Kier
  • Oxford Archeology
  • Airbus Defence & Space
  • Dyson
  • Terex (GB) Ltd
  • Zoological Society of London
  • BBC
  • Callen Lenz
  • Ministry of Defence Police
  • Ericsson Telecom
  • Museum of London Archeology
  • Natural England
  • QinetiQ
  • Police Service of Northern Ireland
  • Health and Safety Executive, Northern Ireland
  • South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute
  • Thales Land and Air Systems
  • Western Power Distribution

Contact us for more details.

 

Recent Customer Reviews – Google Business

The UAV Academy LTD IconThe UAV Academy LTD

Hartham Park, Hartham Lane, Corsham

5.0 182 reviews

  • Avatar Ian Milroy ★★★★★ a week ago
    Just finished the A2 CofC course with the academy. Found the modular course to be well structured with excellent presentation of the various subjects. They were very efficient with swift responses at each stage. I did not need to contact … More them as I had no problems with the course or the final exam. Would recommend to anyone considering taking this qualification.
  • Avatar Piotr B ★★★★★ a month ago
    Andrew was excellent to deal with as ever, I passed my original PfCO with UAVA and recently completed my GVC transition course through their online platform. It was a very simple process and the exam was straightforward to set up and take … More and results were confirmed very quickly. Would highly recommend UAVA for any others seeking qualifications for drone use. Many thanks Andrew et al!
  • Avatar Toby Moss ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
    I took the A2 CofC course online. Great content and delivery, which covered everything needed at the right level of depth. The quizzes for each area of content and the mock exam tracked with the final exam, so getting 100% on the mock was … More in-line with a mark of 100% for real. I was able to buy it, cover the content and practice tests in a few hours then pass it, with everything done and dusted and certificate received within 24 hours, all-in.
  • Avatar Aneirin Wenner ★★★★★ a month ago
    Completed my A2 Certificate of Competence with UAV Academy and it was a very well built platform with very clear laid out course. Would very much recommend to those who are looking for drone training.
  • Avatar Kashjur ★★★★★ 2 months ago
    I took the A2 qualification course, it was very informative and clear, the information was presented so that it was remembered. The support service is also excellent, Andrew was always in touch with me and answered messages even in the … More evening after work.Thank you very much Andrew
  • Avatar Sanusi Wasiu ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    The UAV Academy is just the right place to go to if you're looking to get quality training, certification on UAVs and as a remote pilot.Well organised course outline, seamless processes and proactive personnels to take care of your … More challenges as soon as practicable.Rest assured of getting the value for your investment and detailed training in the simplest way possible
  • Avatar Kamal Jugessur ★★★★★ 2 months ago
    Andrew at the UAV Academy LTD has been super helpful throughout all the courses I've taken. Any questions I had were always answered quickly. The online support, step-by-step guides, learning materials, and visuals made learning a … More breeze and enjoyable. Adam led the practical training, making it fun while ensuring I was knowledgeable about safety measures and flight manoeuvres. Plus, Andrew's aftercare has been very helpful should I have any drone related queries.. Highly recommended!
  • Avatar Robert Green ★★★★★ 3 months ago
    Andrew and the team have been really helpful in steering me i the right direction as to which are the correct courses and qualifications for me. The combined course I took was very well organised and allowed me to revise everything needed … More in my own time and take the test at home and at a time of my choosing. They are very helpful with advice about how everything is developing with the CAA and what to look out for in the future. I feel I can phone them up any time for help and advice.
  • Avatar Alan Chun (Photographer) ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    If you're looking to take your A2CofC then I would highly recommend the UAV Academy.Their course is all you need to pass the test.It's all online and easy to navigate and understand. The mock tests at the end are great for checking … More your understanding of the course and will really make sure you pass first time.If you hit any technical issues, such as webcam problems as I did, the guys at UAV Academy were there to help right away, even late on a Friday evening! You can't ask for any better support than that!Bottom line, if you are wanting to take your A2CofC you won't be disappointed choosing UAV Academy.
  • Avatar Neil Grantham ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    I've just taken the A2 CofC with the UAV academy and found it to be a pleasure. The training course is professionally laid out, logical and easy to understand. Any queries were answered quickly and Andrew in particular was very helpful … More with all sorts of useful information about drones in general.Highly recommended for anyone wanting to take a drone course.
  • Avatar Simon Marshall ★★★★★ 7 months ago
    Completed A2 CofC. All online training. The course is easy to follow and includes videos to assist. There is a 30 question exam in order to qualify; however, you have access to a quiz at the end of each module and there is a mock exam that … More you can take 3 times, to ensure you are ready for the official one. The course took me a few hours over a couple of days and due to the setup, I passed with no issues. I would highly recommend.
  • Avatar Roger Dennett ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    I have obtained my A2 Certificate of Competency by following the UAV Academy's excellent course. It is well structured and easy to follow and although I felt confident enough throughout, I knew that I could refer to Andrew as and when … More required.I would highly recommend UAV Academy to anyone who has ambitions to take that next step into the world of UAV's.
  • Avatar Tim Stubbings ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Really pleased with the UAV Academy's A2 C of C course and qualification process. After completing 3 hrs of pre-course flying and flight logs, the course materials were well presented in bite sized pieces with a test at the end of … More each module to help bed the the knowledge in. Even if you don't require an A2 C of C, I would highly recommend this to anyone that is looking to purchase a drone.
  • Avatar Richard Dijkema ★★★★ 8 months ago
    I did my online training and exam for the A2-CofC UK license here. Great educators and there's sufficient help when you need it. Would recommend!
  • Avatar John Burdass ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    The A2 CoC is a great practical based course that focuses on safe flying rather than text book theory & regulations. End of section practice tests help identify areas that may not be fully understood which really help learning. The … More home based exam is very easy to set up and take making the course highly recommended to anyone looking to safely fly a drone.
  • Avatar Harry Mason ★★★★★ 8 months ago
    Can't fault UAV Academy. A2 CoC experience was very smooth, informative and with good material. The mock tests get you set up nicely for the exam and I've learnt a lot from it. Thank you
  • Avatar BirbEXE ★★★★★ 9 months ago
    Don't let their out of date landing page fool you. I did my A2 CofC with the UAV academy, and I have no regrets. unlike other courses, the learning is all text based and very much at your own pace, which I thought was great. I took … More the remote exam without a hitch, and the uav academy made it very easy to arrange and set up. The learning is very concise, up to date, and nearly completely bloat free. Thank you Andrew, and thank you UAV academy for the great experience. I will definitely be coming again.
  • Avatar UAViewpoint ★★★★★ 9 months ago
    I originally did my PfCO with UAV Academy and have recently transitioned to GVC whilst also completing my A2CofC. All courses were very well designed and planned. Andrew is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful which is invaluable. I would … More thoroughly recommend UAV Academy.
  • Avatar Calvin Cheung ★★★★★ 10 months ago
    Highly recommend UAV academy for completing the A2 CofC. The owner, Andrew is very knowledgeable and quick to respond to all my questions via messenger.I found the course very easy to follow, with a short quiz after each syllabus to really … More drum in the information, it also includes a mock exam before going into the real thing. I signed up and got my certificate on the same day! (scored 30/30 which I am quite proud about)I now feel confident I have the qualification and knowledge to fly legally AND safely.Note: you need a webcam/ mic and a quiet room for the virtual invigilation.
  • Avatar Nigel Castle ★★★★★ 11 months ago
    I passed my A2 Certificate of Competency (using the BMFA discount - so good value) and found it well organised and straight forward to follow the process. It took me around six or seven hours to work slowly through the material provided. … More The tests at the end of each section were very useful and the ability to test myself with the mock final exam really helped build confidence and prove to myself that I was ready. Good communications from the team at UAV while getting set up and after taking the exam were also very impressive.
  • Avatar Ray ★★★★★ a year ago
    Having completed an A2 CofC online course with the UAV Academy, I am very happy with both the experience and the result. Where I had queries or concerns, these were dealt with seriously and quickly. The course presentation and material … More itself was clear and the guidance I had, along with the opportunities to repeat modules as required lead to me being successful and passing the course. On that basis I can happily recommend UAV Academy for anybody requiring similar technical drone training.
  • Avatar i Daring ★★★★★ a year ago
    Decided to go with The UAV Academy to obtain the A2 Certificate of Competency and happy to say, passed first time! Great easy to use website and training platform, easy to follow modules with knowledge testing along the way and lots of … More opportunity to practice the mock exam before taking that formal invigilated exam. Thank you!
  • Avatar Richard Hammond ★★★★★ a year ago
    I've been really impressed with The UAV Academy. I took part in the 2-day course and took my PfCO (both theory and practical assessment) with The UAV Academy and they've been just great. The briefings and overall communication … More has been excellent. I've since renewed my Operational Authorisation through them and have also been guided through the VLOS certification using their online course in early 2023. It's no small job to go through the hoops, and they've been very supportive and informative. By the time I took the exam, I felt I'd been properly briefed and well prepared. First class service!
  • Avatar Darren Harding ★★★★★ a year ago
    This was a really great experience and I’m glad I went with UAV Academy.There’s lots of choice out there but the pathway, process and outcome was first class.The whole course was well put together and paced correctly and being able to take … More your test in the comfort of your own home is fantastic.By choosing an actual training company I received exactly what I needed with no hounding from a sales team trying to upswell.Thanks and we will be using UAV Academy again.
  • Avatar M J Abid ★★★★★ a year ago
    I have recently completed my A2 Certification from UAV Academy. There were three modules with 33 chapters in total. A quiz at the end of each module ensures that you've read and understood the material. I was able to complete all modules … More and pass my assessment in three days which is amazing. Highly recommend to take this certification course even if you are hobbyist like me to get familiar with the importance taspexts of flying drones.
  • Avatar Jacob Whiting ★★★★★ a year ago
    Highly recommended. I completed my A2 certificate of competency with The UAV Academy and the process was very smooth from start to finish. The course was well laid out and allowed me to complete it at my own pace
  • Avatar Andy Dunlop ★★★★★ a year ago
    Just successfully completed the A2 CofC course with The UAV Academy. I found the course very informative and the whole process of online tuition and the online exam very straightforward easy to digest over a couple of days. Highly recommended … More if you are considering the A2 CofC route.
  • Avatar Paul Brewin ★★★★★ a year ago
    Thanks to UAV Academy team for my GVC course which was very useful and professionally run. The course was challenging and ensures and high standard of theory and practical competency. UAV Academy team are excellent communicators and very … More accommodating. Very satisfying when awarded!
  • Avatar TheSpankinManc ★★★★★ a year ago
    The thought of completing this course was a daunting one after only owning a drone for a few weeks (using every day) Andrew was at hand from the moment I made enquiries to enrol. I was reassured at every stage of the process. Clearly set … More out and understandable my concerns were laid to rest. Professional and very knowledgeable, I can’t recommend them highly enough. If you’re debating whether or not to complete you A2 C of C, contact Andrew at The UAV Academy, you will not regret it.Thank you Andrew
  • Avatar Gabriel Luckwell ★★★★★ a year ago
    Straight forward. Plenty of time and all very well explained. Felt very comfortable heading into the exam knowing they had covered all aspects of the course.
  • Avatar injustice101 ★★★★★ a year ago
    Easy sign up, easy access to lots of information. Easy to follow and informative course content and easy to set up and sit the A2 CofC online... What can I say... Easy, straight forward service and a great competitive price too. I would … More highly recommend UAV Academy Ltd.
  • Avatar Amit Jugessur ★★★★★ a year ago
    Having done a couple of other drone courses previously, UAV Academy were by far superior in everyway. The initial call I had with Andrew Bailey was impressive in terms of his knowledge, advice and professionalism in describing the course … More and understanding potential opportunities in the course(s) available. Throughout the study he was at hand to help, with clear guides and tutorials that were invaluable. The flight instructor Adam Richardson was also incredibly professional, leaving me with a great experience of study with UAV Academy. 5 Stars all round, highly recommend.
  • Avatar Gary Smith ★★★★★ a year ago
    The whole process was seamless, the studying material is first class and the quiz and mock exams really help. Highly recommended for all drone pilots. Thanks Andrew
  • Avatar demos360 ★★★★★ a year ago
    The A2 C of C is a good course, very informative and a useful certificate for professional and amateur fliers a like.
    The score is actually 4.5 stars (rounded up). I'd like to see more case studies, perhaps demo videos. But i have
    … More a learning type more suited to practical demonstration, something a good teacher can simulate through anecdotes, but webinars seem to struggle to conjure up.
  • Avatar Douglas Santangelo ★★★★★ a year ago
    The course was clearly presented and structured in easy to follow steps. I completed the course with ease at home, sat the exam and had feedback instantaneously. Andrew Bailey has since supported my follow up queries on further education, … More with a view to taking the GVC study next.
  • Avatar Geoff Nuttall ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Very informative and perfect for completing the A2 C of C course.
    I would highly recommend it to anyone thinking of doing any of the courses available. Andrew is very helpful. Thank you. Fly safe
    Geoff
  • Avatar Kevin Steel ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Superb course!I've just qualified with a GVC certificate. I would highly recommend doing this certificate with The UAV academy. The course is excellently put together with all areas of the qualification specification covered; which … More is import as there's a lot to learn, including legalities. The UAV team are amazing, Andrew (the guvnor) is so knowledgeable on all things drone-wise and is so friendly and helpful even with stupid questions (I had plenty!) and the flight assessor I had, Rob was also from the same mould. Great team, great course, great result! Thanks UAV. Kev, Red Drone LTD.
  • Avatar Ian Mockford ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Only a few days after signing on I passed the A2 CofC with full marks. The course is informative, simple to follow, and gives you plenty of test questions to practise with. I took the final on line test outside working hours and was finished … More in less than 10 minutes. Even though it was after hours I received the official certificate by email the same evening and I was able to make full use of the extended A2 CofC capabilities the next day. Andrew Bailey was very helpful and informative throughout. A very pleasant experience.
  • Avatar Martin Whitton ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    If you are looking around to do your drone certifications I highly recommend UAV Academy, absolutely great experience doing my A2 CofC with these guys. The whole process from start to finish was clean and easy allowing me to digest everything … More on the course at a time and pace that suited my schedule.
    The way the course is laid out and the ability to check your learning along the way really helps embed the knowledge to pass the formal exam.
    If I decide to continue to my GVC I will definitely be coming back to them!
  • Avatar Tom Ford ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    I took my A2 CofC through the UAV Academy and found it very easy to understand and well laid out. There were plenty of quiz questions and mock tests to get me prepared and I passed the formal exam with full marks. Couldn't be happier! … More
  • Avatar SkySeeker Media ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    The UAV Academy had been excellent in their A2CoC course. It was very informative and explanatory. The course is streamlined and to the point without bloat and distractions. It was easy to follow and was wonderful in delivery so I could … More follow the course at my own pace and fortify my knowledge. Therefore I could pass the exam in one go with 100% marks. I can highly recommend The UAV Academy to anyone looking for a training course and exam centre.
  • Avatar Wilson Lam ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Great thanks UAV Academy, I just got my A2CofC!
    The course is so effective! The whole course is broken-down into sessions and lessons so I can study and review every lesson until I fully understand it before I move on to the next one.
    … More There is a quiz session after each session to ensure me understand what I have learned before moving to the next one. There is also a mock exam after completing all the sessions. I achieved a 93.33% mark which gave me full confidence taking the real exam and I really got it!
  • Avatar Artur Wiktorski ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Easy and straightforward course. I have passed without any problems first in first try. Quite well designed lessons grouped into 3 categories of the topics like modules. Quizzes after and each module and MOC test similar to the real one … More at the end. I can recommend honestly. It was easier then I thought it will be and I learnt few new things.
  • Avatar Peter Smith ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Having successfully passed the A2 CofC course yesterday, I would recommend anyone using the UAV Academy for their drone training requirements. The course is superbly laid out and I completed it in within a few days, fitting it in when I … More had a few hours to spare. The exam was well explained by Andrew, I only needed to talk with him twice (he answers the phone very quickly).
    UAV Academy highly recommended.
    Peter Smith.
  • Avatar Phil Cole ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    After searching the internet for a course I came across the very competitively priced UAV Academy. Course was well laid out and easy to navigate the different lessons. The question section at the end of each chapter helps you see how you … More are progressing. All in all a well designed syllabus and would recommend. Thank you UAV Academy.
  • Avatar Samantha Kenyon ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Fantastic content and training materials, thanks to these I passed with ease. Thank you Andrew for answering any questions promptly. I would highly recommend!
  • Avatar Daniel Leslie ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Great experience was quick and straight forward. Their learning materials were all easy to use and very helpful. Would 100% recommend
  • Avatar Ben Norton ★★★★★ 2 years ago
    Excellent service from Andrew. He explained the best course and the current requirements for my needs. The online content was clear and well thought out.

Recent Customer Reviews – Facebook

See more of what our customers have to say about us on our Testimonial Page

Please talk to us

We understand that gaining a CAA Drone Qualification is a serious undertaking. It is very important that you fully understand the process, the options and what will be required of you.

On the right you will see a few of the most common questions we are asked. If you have any other questions please contact us by phone on 01285 610038, by email to info@uavacademy.co.uk, or via our Facebook Page. We love to talk with our customers, so please get in touch.