Primary school pupils delighted as RAF helicopter makes surprise visit

Children gathered around the school field at Turton and Edgworth Primary School and watched in amazement as the helicopter came down out of the clouds and landed in front of them.

Two pilots then chatted to the children and each pupil had the chance to sit in the cockpit.

The shocking arrival was part of Aspirations Week where children were taught useful skills and given the chance to think about their future.

It came about because of Ed Stephens, the father of two students at the school, who is also a crew engagement officers for the RAF in the North West.

The squadron leader arranged for the helicopter to pay a visit as a surprise from RAF Shawbury in Shrewsbury and says he has since spoken to a number of delighted parents.

"We kept it a secret from the kids until the day but they were made up," Mr Stephens said.

"Ever since the visit, I have had several parents who said my son or daughter is desperate to join the RAF now, it was really a privilege."

Craig Wheatley, head of Turton and Edgworth Primary, agreed that the visit, which took place on Wednesday, June 26, had been hugely popular with his pupils.

“Some of the children thought it was the best day they’d ever had at school," he said.

“They had their minds blown, they thought it was fantastic.”

While the arrival of the helicopter proved particularly popular, the school also had a number of visits from other interesting people during Aspirations Week - a twist on regular careers weeks.

Youngsters were given the opportunity to learn from experts in horticulture, protecting the environment and healthy eating, in a bid to help preserve their future.

More conventional lessons included talks about the work of surgeons, lawyers, aeroplane designers and the police which were presented to the children throughout the week-long event.