The £500,000 aviation-themed learning hub, which works with young people to boost skills in STEM subjects and showcase airport careers, has seen nearly 1600 children pass through its doors since opening on June 10, 2015.
Fifty schools and colleges, including students from as far away as the Netherlands, have called in and experienced the range interactive activities, informative videos and resource packs as well meeting staff from across the airport. A particular favourite amongst the youngsters is the viewing platform which has panoramic views across the airfield so they can watch the airport in full operation.
Joanne Davies, Stansted Airport’s Education Coordinator, said: "We are absolutely thrilled with these numbers. We are way ahead of the targets we set ourselves but more importantly the Aerozone has really struck a chord with the children and teachers who have visited us. I believe its success is down to its uniqueness, there’s nothing else like it in the area. I’m also delighted at how the airport community has really embraced the Aerozone. Many colleagues, including security officers, fire-fighters, operations staff, pilots and police officers have given up their time and volunteered at the centre.”
The Aerozone is the airport’s flagship community project and engaging with young people, particularly those living close to the airport, is a vital part of Stansted’s community work. The overall aim is to inspire and encourage young people to consider choosing a career at the airport or the aviation sector when they leave school, college or university.
The centre has received widespread praise from the Aviation Minister, Robert Goodwill MP, neighbouring MPs, local Government representatives, schools and colleges. The guest book has been filling up fast with compliments from visitors.
Comments include:
“I would definitely recommend this (Aerozone) as a visit and look forward to returning in the future.” Suzie Strutt, Thorley Hill Primary in Bishop’s Stortford.
“It is a fantastic resource for children across all the year groups.” Clare West, Christian School in Takeley.
“All my support staff commented on how they felt it was the best school trip that they had been on.” Carolyn Joyce, Silver End Primary School.
“My students enjoyed every part of their visit.” Deborah Brand, Colchester Institute.
“Very well organised by professional staff.” Anne Minett, Canterbury College.
“Lovely environment, well thought out with resources that engaged a variety of students.” Maria Boulton, Saffron Walden County High School.
“The students are fortunate to have such an opportunity on their doorstep. It's especially important for them to not only see airport careers in action, but the various paths that can be taken to get there.” Sarah Wedgbrow, Forest Hall School in Stansted.
Over 150 community representatives, local councillors, business representatives, local school children and special guest, Tottenham Hotspur legend, Ledley King from the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation gathered at the Aerozone on June 10, 2015, to mark the official opening. A video of the event is available to view on the airport’s YouTube page
Image: Aerozone1 – The Aerozone opened on June 10, 2015. Stansted Airport’s Managing Director, Andrew Harrison (left) is pictured with Ledley King (centre), Ex England and Tottenham Hotspur footballer, and students from Stansted’s Forest Hall School.
About Aerozone Stansted
Aerozone Stansted is a new aviation-themed education facility, focussing on core STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) along with the history of the airport and the range of careers available within the aviation sector.
The centre welcomes schools and colleges with pupils aged 4 - 18+. The Aerozone is a flexible facility full of interactive activities, informative videos and resource packs across a range of key stages available for teachers to use whilst on site. Pupils can also speak to colleagues from across the airport site about their career, or watch the airport in action from its very own bespoke viewing platform.
The facility is free for use by schools and colleges and is based at the heart of the airport.
Businesses and organisations supporting the project are: Boeing, The Royal Aeronautical Society, Galliford Try, Essex Police, Essex County Council, British Airways, Harrods Aviation, Ryanair, easyJet, Titan Airways, Marriot Civils, AV8 Consulting, NATS, Youth Education Support, Inflite and Safran.
For more information about the Aerozone, or to download a booking form, visit www.stanstedairport.com/aerozone
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For further information contact Stansted Airport press office:
T: +44 (0)1279 680534
E: mediacentre@stanstedairport.com
W: stanstedairport.com
twitter: @STN_PressOffice
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