10,000 Students Reached as ACP Delivers Back-to-Back Presentations

The Schools’ Aerospace Careers Programme (ACP) passed a major milestone at the start of July, with its total number of student engagements reaching 10,079. The achievement came during a week that saw two separate roadshow presentations delivered at schools in Yorkshire and Buckinghamshire.

On Tuesday 1 July, the ACP visited Ripon Grammar School, where 115 of their students took part in the presentation. They were joined by 10 students each from Nidderdale High School, Pateley Wood School, and St Francis Xavier School, bringing the total audience to 145.

Chris Marshall opened the session with a presentation on how technology has evolved through the Fourth Industrial Revolution and is now progressing into the Fifth. He later manned the FPV drone simulators during the breakout sessions. Mike Stokes provided students with a detailed overview of the routes into commercial piloting and operated the 360-degree VR flight experience. Lee Mason explored emerging aerospace technologies such as artificial intelligence and supported students using a 3D VR design experience.

On Thursday 3 July, the ACP delivered a second presentation at Akeley Wood School. This event was observed by ACP trustee Adrian Jones, with 115 students taking part. The format remained consistent, with breakout experiences providing hands-on engagement for all attendees.

At the end of each session, students had the rare opportunity to interact directly with Spot, the quadruped robot developed by Boston Dynamics. Spot was available to answer questions, sparking curiosity and laughter as students explored its capabilities and role within aerospace and robotics applications.

Both events received highly positive feedback. Staff praised the balance of technical insight and practical engagement, while students left with a broader understanding of the career opportunities available in aerospace and adjacent sectors.

Bob Walker, Ripon Grammar School:
“If you want your students to be enthused about technology and careers in aerospace this is the organisation to ask.A superb opportunity for your students.”

Mark Lambert, Akeley Wood School:
“Awesome and engaging activities for students to engage with.”

The ACP extends its warmest thanks to Ripon Grammar School and Akeley Wood School for their hospitality.