Rotherham Rotherham Airbourne Challenge 2006

2006 was the second year of our Rotherham Airborne Challenge Competition, held this year at Kelham Island Museum on Wednesday 28th June from 9:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. This year we were fortunate enough to welcome Joyce Thacker, a Senior Head of Service from the authority, to present the trophies and prizes.

The competition is based on an activity originally devised by the British Model Flying Association and includes the opportunity for children from Key Stages 2, 3 and 4 to work in collaboration as well as in competition when designing helicopters and adapting aircraft to carry a designated load. A logo was designed as result of a competition open to all participating schools in Rotherham and that is now evident on the medals, trophies and communication.

This year, two secondary and nine primary schools participated; the main bulk of work being put in during and out of school time under the watchful eye and creative input of Mick Horwood, our BMFA specialist. He has the knack of developing the challenge to suit the participants and is always careful to link the work undertaken with aspects of the Science curriculum.

But it is not only Science and Design Technology that have a focus - there are also categories for folders explaining the work undertaken and outlining an evaluation from the students’ points of view. This has its own category and trophy, and all teams finish the competition occasion with raised self-esteem, the satisfaction of a stimulating and rewarding day and a determination to do even better next year.

An extra feature included on the day in 2006 was a challenge for accompanying teachers - this caused no small concern and it could even be said that grown adults were filled with fear at the prospect; but in the event, all went well and a great deal of fun was had by all! It will certainly become a key feature in years to come as we plan to expand and develop the challenge and enjoyment of the day.