Students in a League of their own
STUDENTS enjoyed a truly out of this world experience when they visited St James Palace.
Pupils from The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School attended a reception courtesy of British Airways and The Air League to celebrate a training programme aimed at encouraging more people into aviation, especially those who would not otherwise get the opportunity.
The Air League educates young people about the world of aviation and its importance and to get them involved as much as possible in this exciting environment.
Originally, 16 students from the school were taken up in gliders on a taster day and as their confidence grew they covered a range of manoeuvres from spins to stalls – one student, Rupinder Loyal, even flew solo.
The celebration began with all students receiving certificates, followed by a speech from Prince Phillip as patron of The Air League.
Adding to the excitement was the unexpected call from space from Captain Tim Peake, who had himself received an award for his work encouraging young people to get involved in aviation.
Tony Corish, the head teacher of the Douay Martyrs Secondary School, said: “I am delighted to see so many of our young people engaging with such exciting and challenging pursuits.
“They are a credit to the school and I wish them well in the world of aviation should they decide to embark upon a career in this field.”