NED Skehan built model military planes as a child but will soon swap his school uniform for military blues.

The Scots PGC College vice-captain gained an appointment in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and will head to the Australian Defence Force Academy in January.

Ned said he had been looking forward to that moment his whole life.

He applied for the post in November 2010 and learnt recently about his early acceptance. Other applicants learn whether they've been accepted in December.

"I've had a collection of model planes at home since I was little and it's something I've wanted for so long," he said.

Ned was appointed as an Armament Engineer Trainee and hopes to one day become a pilot.

"They (RAAF) told me 'go for your wildest dream' so I went for pilot but got knocked back because of my asthma."

Ned will engage in nine years of training and studying as he completes a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering degree but won't let his asthma hold him back.

"It isn't too bad so if it gets better I can do my nine years then reapply to be a pilot."

Scots PGC head of boys' boarding and air force reserve Greg Wacker acted as a mentor for Ned.

"I gave him some leadership books and helped with the initial processes but, after that, it was all his own doing," Mr Wacker said. "I was speaking to his parents at Cardinal Day and they took a photo of us and I said 'next time you take this photo we will both be in uniform'."

Ned said he is is "so pumped" to start his new career.