Physics pupils reach for the stars on unforgettable space adventure
Middle School and Sixth Form Physics pupils embarked on the trip of a lifetime, spending six action-packed days in the United States to deepen their understanding of space and science in the real world.
The adventure began as they arrived in Orlando, Florida, where pupils settled into their hotel and enjoyed a relaxing evening with pizza and leisure time – recharging for the exciting days ahead.
Day two was spent at the Kennedy Space Center, Florida’s gateway to space. The scientists explored the venue and found out more about the story of space exploration as they looked closely at spacecraft including the Space Shuttle Atlantis and the Saturn V moon rocket. An exciting day was concluded with Mexican food at the impressive ICON Park.
The travellers didn’t have far to go on day three as they crossed the street to iFLY where they experienced the thrill of indoor skydiving – bringing the dream of flight to life.
The evening was spent at WonderWorks, an indoor wonderland of Physics experiments, simulations and games combining education and entertainment thanks to over 100 hands-on exhibits. The pupils enjoyed dinner with a difference as they attended the hilarious Outta Control Magic Dinner Show.
On day four the group spent the morning at Cocoa Beach, visiting the well-known Ron Jon’s surf shop and, of course, the stunning beach. Then the physicists made their way back to the Kennedy Space Center for their unforgettable Astronaut Training Experience. At the out-of-this-world venue the pupils trained like the next generation of space explorers and enjoyed making their way around the activities that included using immersive simulation technology and authentic NASA science.
Day five was spent at Universal Studios and the Island Of Adventure Orlando – and the intrepid pupils loved having the whole day to explore. A highlight for everyone was the high-speed Jurassic World VelociCoaster – the fastest and tallest launch coaster in Florida!
After checking out of their hotel on the final day the pupils headed to Boggy Creek where they boarded an airboat and took in the incredible beauty of nature, including the wetlands and wildlife.
There was time for some last-minute shopping at the Florida Mall before they hopped on their coach for one last time to head to the airport for their flight home.
The pupils arrived back mid-morning the next day – tired from the long flight but buzzing with excitement and unforgettable memories.
Pupil Isaac Clowes hailed it as the “trip of a lifetime”, Toby Gleave commented: “I enjoyed learning about the topic that interest me more than anything” and Alfie Kermode added: “I really enjoyed learning about life in space – best trip ever.”
Excursion organiser and Head of Physics Mrs Heather Fenton said: “The pupils were amazing throughout the whole trip, and it was a joy to spend time with them. When I asked each of them what their highlight was, they all said different things – showing how many great activities were packed into the itinerary!
“The activity organisers said that they were impressed with how eagerly the pupils threw themselves into everything and remarked that they were “exceptional” – which is always wonderful to hear.”
