National Science Week was celebrated in a quite unique way by Year 10 students at Matravers School.
They were joined by a team from 815 Naval Air Squadron, based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, to explore the theory of flight and gas turbine engines, organised by 815 Squadron led by Lt Mike Doyle, CPO Duncan Phillpotts, Matravers School Science teacher, Mr Niall Holbourn and alternative provision progress leader, Annette Marsden.
The day started with a short presentation about life in the Royal Navy and all the work that is undertaken. Students were then guided through different principles around the topic of flight.
815 Squadron had brought a full size helicopter engine to demonstrate in one workshop, “Suck, squeeze, bang, blow” in a more hands on way. In the other, students learnt all about flight and had the pleasure of throwing paper aeroplanes!
The engineers from 815 delivered some amazing sessions which really helped to bring it all to life. Students used their knowledge to design and build their own metal turbine fan and saw if it could stand the test and work efficiently.
As Year 10 student, James Verley commented, “It was a really good learning experience” and Ellen Blackman continued, “I found this very interesting and I learnt what it would be like flying a helicopter.”
RNAS Yeovilton sent a Lynx helicopter to Matravers School and, with the students watching, the helicopter circled the school and landed on the playing fields. Students were then allowed to go all over the Lynx, sit in the cockpit, explore its dimensions and talk to the pilots and engineers about this incredible piece of equipment. There were lots of questions and loads of time to investigate and explore.
Jess Payne observed that the helicopter was, “Very small inside with lots of controls and really fun.” Whilst Jack Ireland voiced the opinion of many of those taking part when he said that he hoped one day there would be the chance to “fly in a helicopter.”
Lunch was prepared by Yr 10 GCSE Food students. Millie Brisdon stated that, “Today was an awesome day…so fun!” And Amy Doughty continued, “It was really good and I enjoyed it.” Mrs Marsden admitted that it had been one of the most fun filled days of her lengthy teaching career.
The team from 815 Squadron were equally pleased and hoped to offer similar projects across the region. All at the school agreed; with an eclipse and a Lynx helicopter, it was a fabulous way to bring Science to life.
