Students amazed as helicopter lands at Shrewsbury elementary school

Students at St. George’s Junior School in Shrewsbury were treated to a unique and thrilling experience earlier this week when a helicopter landed on the school grounds. The special event was organized to introduce the students to the exciting career possibilities within the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

The pupils, ranging from Years 3, 5, and 6, eagerly gathered on the school field to witness the helicopter’s dramatic landing. Later in the day, Year 4 students had the opportunity to watch the aircraft take off, much to their delight. The 360 students at the school were all able to explore the helicopter up close, trying on the pilot’s safety vests and helmets, adding to the excitement of the day.

The main objective of the helicopter landing was to inspire students to consider pursuing subjects related to STEM. To further enhance the educational experience, the three pilots responsible for the helicopter visit – Squadron Leader Tom Brown, Flight Lieutenant Simon Harrison, and Lieutenant Commander Mark Rose, all from RAF Shawbury – engaged with the children and enthusiastically answered their questions.

Flight Lieutenant Harrison conducted a workshop explaining the fundamental principles of forces to the students, making the connection between scientific concepts and the real-life operation of the aircraft. The engagement with the pilots and the hands-on experience of exploring the helicopter left the pupils energized and eager to learn more about STEM subjects.

As an additional interactive activity, Year 5 students had the opportunity to create paper models of the helicopter, allowing them to learn more about its design and structure. It was mentioned that both Pilots Brown and Rose have children attending St. George’s Junior School, adding a personal touch to the visit, while Pilot Harrison’s child from the neighboring Woodfield Infant School also had the chance to witness the helicopter landing and take-off.

The school atmosphere was filled with curiosity and enthusiasm as the pupils engaged with the helicopter visit, leaving a lasting impression on their young minds about the wonders of STEM subjects. The event successfully showcased the exciting and diverse opportunities that exist within the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, inspiring the students to consider pursuing these paths in the future.