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Unique aviation programme launched at Bristol academy by an astronaut and Olympian

An Olympian and an astronaut walk into a school…

It sounds like the start of a bad joke, but it was a reality for Bristol Metropolitan academy students who were joined by Olympian Kriss Akabusi and astronaut Claudie Haigneré for the launch of a programme from aviation giant Airbus.

Astronaut Claudie Haignere
Astronaut Claudie Haignere

Flying Challenge will offer 13 and 14-year-olds at the academy the chance to gain valuable insights into the aviation world through a year-long scheme. They will learn about aviation design – and have a flying lesson.

Upon completion, students will have experienced all aspects of the aerospace industry, with a practical skills portfolio and work experience to show for it.

Phillipa Evans, design and technology teacher at the academy, said: “Our students are looking forward to this huge challenge. They were also inspired to hear from Kriss Akabusi and Claudie Haigneré about the effort that took them to the top.”

Since the start of the Airbus Flying Challenge in 2012, about 1,460 students across France, Spain and the USA have completed the programme.

 

Picture:Students, employees and special guests celebrate the launch of the Airbus Foundation Challenge in the UK

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