Theory of Flight takes off at Chester Zoo

School pupils’ explore the links between man-made flight and the natural world.

Year 9 pupils from North Wales and Cheshire enjoyed a day at Chester Zoo learning about how man-made flight takes its roots from nature.

The Theory of Flight event, run by Airbus and Chester Zoo is designed to develop pupils’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) before making their GCSE choices.

Pupils’ from Whitby High School, St David’s High School and Upton High School took part in the two day event. Starting at Chester Zoo, students took a tour of the aviaries and participated in interactive sessions with Steve Williams, the zoo’s Lead Avian Keeper, to learn about birds’ wings and natural flight.

Teacher Nigel Skilling, from Upton-By-Chester High school said,

“Our pupils are in a crucial year, deciding which options to take – events like today may encourage them to consider careers in engineering.”

The following day, pupils visited Airbus in Broughton where they were taught the principles of man-made flight from graduates who work at the wing manufacturing plant. Airbus apprentices also demonstrated to them how to put the theory of flight into practice by building their own gliders from wood.

A competition was held at Airbus between the schools where pupils flew their creations, the furthest distance travelled would be the winner.

The winners of the glider competition Upton High School were awarded model Airbus A380 prizes in recognition of their successful design.

Steve Edwards, Education Partnership Manager at Airbus presented the prizes and said,

“The last two days have been highly successful with all the pupils being thoroughly engaged. Pupils have learnt a great deal about flight and also the importance of STEM subjects and about possible careers in aeronautical engineering.”

Mr Skilling added,

“With the help of Airbus and Chester Zoo our pupils had an excellent opportunity to learn the importance and relevance of the natural world and how it can influence the development of aircraft.”