By Jessica Skelton
Six primary school children were able to meet RAF Red Arrow pilots, after winning a competition to design paper aeroplanes. These children, from various schools in the BCP area, met the world famous RAF pilots during Bournemouth Air Show festival.
Bournemouth Air Show
This competition was created in a bid to inspire the next generation of young engineers in Bournemouth. All the winners were also taken on a tour of Ultra Energy STEM Village. This is an engineering exhibition, with exciting demonstrations from local STEM companies.
The winner’s experience
Among other things, the young aviation enthusiasts were able to ask questions on what it’s like to be a pilot, especially about flying for the Red Arrows. After bringing their winning paper aeroplanes with them, the children offered the pilots a chance to see them and fly them round the room. Red Arrow Wing Commander, Adam Collins started with an inspirational speech and then commented on how impressive the paper aeroplanes were, and that he liked how they mirrored the air festival.
The winners were from the following local schools:
- Winton Primary School
- Parkfield Primary School
- Talbot Heath
- Christchurch Infants
- Heatherlands Primary School
- St Clement’s & St John’s Infant School
The lucky winner from Winton Primary School couldn’t believe he was able to meet Red Arrow pilots. His mother stated that he’s always been passionate about joining the RAF and has dreams of being a Red Arrow pilot, so this was such an incredible opportunity for him. The majority of the children had a similar fondness for the Red Arrows and it was a great day for all.
In the June that’s just passed, every primary school in the BCP area was invited to take part in an online Q&A, (question and answer) session with Red Arrow’s pilots. Flt Lt (Flight Lieutenant) Patrick Kershaw, also known as Red 5 spoke to the children. With over 130 classes and 3,300 children taking part, it inspired many. He told the children of his fondness for the area and how he’ll be sure to wave at them all when he’s flying over.
You can read more about the experience here.