Three weeks ago, Sheppard Year 8 students embarked on an exciting trip to the Air Force Museum of New Zealand. We were greeted by the welcoming staff and immediately got started learning about the innovation of flight, with a focus on World War II. After going over the basic guidelines, we split up, with S2 going to Chris to learn about the four key elements of flight and the history of aviation, while S3 set off on an exciting scavenger hunt.
In Chris’s session, we listened to a presentation about the history of aviation and discussed how World War II accelerated the growth of aviation technology. We then headed up to the classroom to learn about the different components of planes and how they fly. Chris made sure to engage everyone by inviting students to help build a model plane. We also participated in an activity about the four key elements of flight: weight, thrust, lift, and drag. Afterward, we split into groups and had the chance to ‘fly’ a plane, identify a strange metal object (which turned out to be an arrestor hook), and sit in a real ejection seat!
Meanwhile, downstairs, S3 was having the time of their lives. They hunted for items during the scavenger hunt and then had free time to explore the museum. Many students enjoyed the immersive games or the prison camp roleplay, while everyone got to see some amazing historical artifacts. One student remarked, “I loved just looking at the planes and roleplaying in the prison escape exhibition.”
At 11:00, we gathered for morning tea on the lawn, where many of us took the opportunity to admire the world map memorial. Afterward, we swapped activities for even more fun. After a long day of learning, we returned to school at 12:40, our minds full of new knowledge. The Air Force Museum kindly gifted us mini airplanes, which we’ll use in future learning activities.
The trip to the Air Force Museum was a fantastic learning experience, and the Sheppard Year 8s came away with a greater appreciation for the history of aviation and the innovations that shaped it. We left feeling proud of our school and grateful for the opportunity to learn in such an immersive, hands-on way.
Isabella Revolta S2
