Pupils took to the skies after getting involved in a programme that aims to inspire youngsters to consider a career in aviation.
Thirty students from Hertswood Academy in Borehamwood recently took part in the Soaring to Success scheme at Elstree Aerodrome.
They participated in two air experience days giving them the opportunity to fly in a small plane, access the control tower, watch mechanics working on fixed wing engines and learn first-hand from the team at the aerodrome.
Iain Sands, deputy head and head of careers at Hertswood Academy, said: “We would like to thank all the staff at the Air League and Elstree Aerodrome who have made this incredible day possible.
“We would also like to thank the Hertfordshire Careers and Enterprise Company who work tirelessly in the background and without whom we wouldn't be working with the Air League. It has been an amazing experience for our students, with support and opportunities like this allowing them to expand their knowledge and grow as people."
Mr Sands added: “We hope to be able to give this opportunity to our students next year and we are already working with the Air League on ways to make this possible.”
Jessica Allen-Back, director of London Elstree Aerodrome, who fund the Soaring to Success Programme, added: "Hertfordshire has a rich history of innovation in the aerospace industry, and at the aerodrome we are proud to be helping to make a career in aviation more accessible to young people through our Soaring to Success Programme.
“Together with the Air League, our aim is to inspire local pupils and help them understand the breadth of career opportunities available within aviation and that there are pathways available to make these accessible to them."
She added: “Living so close to the last licensed general aviation airfield in the county means that pupils from this area have an even better opportunity to access this exciting and rewarding sector.
“There has been a fantastic uptake locally, with over 400 pupils from Borehamwood accessing the programme, and next year we look forward to expanding this to schools in Watford, Bushey, and north London."
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