Public Services Trip to Cottesmore

Student Kelly McGarry writes . . .

The Royal Air Force Station in Cottesmore has a reputation for “outstanding capability across the full spectrum of their activities.” It is able to boast an impressive collection of four Harrier Squadrons; 1 (fighter) Squadron, IV (Army Cooperation) Squadron, 800 Naval Air Squadron and 801 Naval Air Squadron. And it was the destination of choice for Martin Rawles and his Public Service students for a recent excursion.

The students were shown around the station where they saw lots of flying which Martin said was “a very popular part of the tour.” One of the most exciting parts for students was getting to see inside a Harrier Plane engine. Though the students weren’t able to do much “hands-on” work they did acquire a wide range of new information through interesting talks and demonstrations.

According to Martin, the main aim of this trip was twofold. The first goal was to “give the students the opportunity to experience something different to give them a new career option.” The second ambition was to give them the ability to understand what they learn in the classroom a little better. Martin feels “Students learn better if they are able to experience the lesson for themselves, rather than just being told in the classroom.”

Groups of students from Public Services go to visit The Royal Air Force Station at Cottesmore regularly and they were once again impressed by how much was learned and what they were able to do. Martin feels this experience always has a positive impact for the course and says he “looks forward to going again.”