SPACE L A new Aviation space was officially opened earlier this year at the Senior Campus. With notable alumni including Sir Wilmot Hudson Fysh, co-founder of Qantas, David Warren, creator of the black box flight recorder, and Victor and Ivan Holyman, co-founders of Holyman’s Airlines (later to become part of Australian National Airlines and AnsettANA), aviation is very much a part of the School’s heritage, and now its future. The purpose-built fit-out is now the epicentre for students enrolled in the School’s unique Aviation programme – the only one of its kind in the state. The programme provides a practical pathway to acquire highly specialised skills for Grade 8 to 10 students who have a passion for aeronautics and engineering. Aviation programme coordinator, Dr Cameron Rogers says students choose to study aviation for a variety of reasons.
“When combined, Science, Mathematics and Engineering can empower a student to understand both theoretical and practical components of aeronautical engineering.” Cameron says the Aviation space features functional flight simulators, a relaxed space for drone flying instruction, and the RV-12 plane, currently under construction. “The plane is being built as part of two electives offered by the School for students across Grades 9 and 10. “Building a plane is not only about the engineering side of the project it will also teach students a variety of important skills. “The creation of a plane is easier, engineering-wise, than building a car, as there are less parts, so this makes for a much better school project. “I am very excited about the new Aviation space and the opportunity for students to be involved in this largescale aviation project.”
“I would suggest a quarter of the students plan on becoming pilots in any sort of professional capacity,” says Cameron. “With the remainder interested in seeing how subjects complement each other in a learning environment.
Grade 9 Aviation Studies student, Reiley Hind building a model aircraft to be displayed in the new Aviation space
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News from Launceston Grammar
