Aerozone Stansted, the airport’s new education centre designed to inspire young people, officially opens its doors today (June 10). The £500,000 learning hub, MAG’s (Manchester Airports Group) flagship community project at Stansted, 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 airport aims to attract over 5,000 youngsters to the centre by 2016.
Speaking ahead of the grand opening, Andrew Harrison, Stansted Airport’s Managing Director, said:
“The Aerozone is our flagship community project here at Stansted and its opening represents a long-term commitment to our community. Engaging with young people, particularly those living in areas close to the airport, is a vital part of our community work. The aim of the centre is 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.”
Over 150 community representatives, local councillors, business representatives, local school children and special guest, Tottenham Hotspur legend, Ledley King from the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation will gather at the Aerozone today to mark the official opening. Almost 20 separate businesses and organisations have joined forces with the airport and are supporting the Aerozone project, offering sponsorship and materials to equip the centre including Boeing and Essex County Council.
Sir Michael Arthur, president of Boeing and Ireland, said:
“As a growing aerospace company Boeing has an increasing need for engineers. Educational facilities like the Stansted Aerozone play an important role in inspiring young people at an early stage to study STEM subjects and take an interest in aviation. Boeing is a proud supporter of the Aerozone and we will work together to ensure as many schools and students as possible benefit from its facilities.”
Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, said:
“I am confident that this new facility will be well-used by schools across Essex and further afield. How better to spark a child’s imagination than to develop their learning of STEM subjects related to the aviation industry, in a fantastic centre within sight of the Stansted runway. I know that Essex teachers, who always strive to add value to students’ learning at school, will find the Aerozone extremely beneficial.”
Also attending the event is David Williams, Area Director Business in the Community (BiTC), the award winning charity that supports responsible business.
“Business in the Community encourages all UK businesses to engage in education through high-quality school partnerships, supporting young people and promoting equality of opportunity. As a major employer in the region it’s great to see that Stansted Airport is making this investment to inspire young people and broaden their interest in STEM subjects,” said Mr Williams.
Take a look around our new Aerozone: https://youtu.be/pd4KjtTiaYg
