Young people graduate with new skills
2 min read
Celebration day held for Airbus Foundation Flying Challenge students.
A group of students aged 13 and 14 from Bristol Metropolitan Academy in Fishponds, graduated on Wednesday, after a yearlong journey with the Airbus Foundation on its Flying Challenge programme. In front of their parents, mentors, teachers and peers, they received recognition for their dedication, skills and personal development.
The ceremony highlighted the legacy the year nine students have created. Over the past 12 months, they have filed, sanded and glued their way to the construction of part of a human powered aircraft. They have visited landing gear testing, been in a wind tunnel and seen 3D printing. They leave the programme having gained first aid skills, an Industrial Cadets Gold Award, and a L2 Basic Skills qualification. They have now handed over their work to the next team of students to continue the project.
Over the course of the year the young people developed in confidence, self-esteem and a belief in themselves that will motivate them to continue with, and succeed in their education.
One of the students said; “I have loved visiting Airbus this year, it has made such a difference to me, and really made me aware of what jobs I might like to do when I leave school”.
Pippa Evans, DT teacher at Bristol Metropolitan Academy said; “It’s been fantastic to see how far the students have come this year. It’s been such a good opportunity for them to develop skills that they wouldn’t necessarily have the opportunity to develop in the classroom”.
John Hobday, Head of Airbus’ ProtoSpace Facility and Flying Challenge volunteer said; “It’s a great project for both the children and the employees, and a real opportunity to give something back to the local community. We look forward to welcoming the next group of students to continue the amazing progress achieved this year”.
