Thousands of schoolchildren visit Stansted Airport education centre in first three year

London Stansted Airport’s flagship community project, the Aerozone education centre, celebrated its 10,000 visitor with a special party event for local schoolchildren this week.

The £500,000, purpose-built learning hub aims to boost skills in STEM subjects - science, technology, engineering and maths - to tell the story of the airport’s rich history and show visitors the range of exciting careers that are available in aviation.

The centre reached the milestone with the visit of 45 four and five-year-olds from RA Butler Primary School in Saffron Walden.

During their visit, they heard from airport firefighters and airfield operational staff about their jobs at the airport, as well as being treated to face painting, a balloon entertainer and celebratory cupcakes.

The Aerozone hosts children and young people from schools and colleges in the region around the airport, to hear from airport staff and on-site business partners, from airside rangers and cabin crew to pilots and police officers. All speakers give up their time to speak to pupils about their role at Stansted Airport and how to aim for a career in a variety of aviation-related job roles.

Marcella M’Rabety London Stansted’s CSR Manager, said: “We’re delighted to reach this impressive milestone of 10,000 young people benefitting from the Aerozone. The centre exists to inspire young people to consider the varied careers within aviation, focusing on the vital STEM subjects that generate real prospects for young people and open their eyes to the fantastic opportunities available on their doorstep.

“We have a packed schedule of schools – mainly from within 20 miles of the airport – booked in to visit the Aerozone, demonstrating the appetite for local children to find out more about London Stansted and also build their aspirations for careers in everything from engineering to hospitality.

“Supporting education and helping to inspire the next generation is a key aim for the airport, one which will continue with the eagerly awaited opening of Stansted Airport College in September. I hope we’ll be welcoming some of our previous Aerozone visitors to the next stage of their education at the college in the near future!”

Holly Murphy, class teacher at RA Butler Primary School, said:“This facility is a fantastic opportunity for children of all ages to learn about all aspects of airport life. The staff and resources are fun, engaging and interactive and it’s a wonderful experience for all.”