Pupils fly the virtual skies with flight simulator experience
Pupils from Wimbish Primary Academy and The Meadow Primary School, part of Anglian Learning, tested their piloting skills with a flight simulator experience led by a local aviation heritage trust.
The two computer simulators are based on the WW1 SE5a fighter plane used by the British Armed Forces during World War One. Pupils put on the VR headset which is programmed with missions ‘Scout’ pilots would have accomplished during the war.
Also included in the day’s activities was a quiz led by Cllr Stewart Luck, who donated the experience to the two schools as part of the Uttlesford District Council Youth Initiatives Working Group.
Stewart said, “From my first interaction with the academy to the event day, the teachers, staff, and pupils were truly outstanding. We had an incredible time, made new friends, and built connections that I believe will inspire collaboration and the sharing of skills in the future”.
Chris Steadman, Senior Class Teacher of Wimbish Primary Academy, said “All pupils had a fabulous day and learnt so much from the visitors from The Aviation Heritage Trust. The VR experience was amazing, and the historical background was enriching and informative for all”.
30 Pupils from The Meadow Primary School, who partner with Wimbish Primary Academy under their Executive Headteacher, Nichola Pickford, were also invited to take part in the activities.
Nichola said “We are incredibly thankful to Cllr Stewart Luck for providing this unique opportunity for our pupils. Experiencing history firsthand helps our pupils to understand the past and boosts their engagement and love of learning. Both our staff and pupils have been inspired by the STEM activity and are thankful for the time given by the heritage trust to answer any questions.”
In the afternoon, pupils took part in an art session, capturing what they had learnt during the activity within their artwork.
The WW1 Aviation Heritage Trust is a registered charity set up to provide an enduring flying collection of World War I Allied and German aeroplanes. Their goal is the education of current and future generations as testimony to the aircrews of the Great War, their planes, and their sacrifice.
To find out more about the heritage trust, please visit: https://ww1aviationheritagetrust.co.uk/
To find out more about Wimbish Primary Academy, please visit: https://wimbishprimary.org/
To find out more about The Meadow Primary School, please visit: https://meadowprimary.org/