An airport learning centre is celebrating 10 years of inspiring the next generation in Essex.
Stansted Airport’s Aerozone, an on-site education hub, has welcomed more than 25,000 students since opening in 2015.
The hub has been offering hands-on activities, STEM workshops, and insight into aviation careers for pupils from across Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk.
Gareth Powell, managing director of London Stansted, said: "When we launched the Aerozone, the goal was to create a space that would inspire the next generation.
"Reaching 10 years, and over 25,000 visitors, is a huge milestone. Best of all is seeing former visitors now training at Stansted Airport College or even working at the airport.
"That’s when you know it’s really making a difference."
The centre features a flight simulator and interactive sessions, with a focus on sustainability and the airport’s Jet Zero ambitions.
The 10-year milestone coincides with the launch of Stansted’s new five-year Sustainability Strategy: Creating a Sustainable Future for All.
Airport staff regularly volunteer at the Aerozone to share their career journeys, from engineering and air traffic control to customer service and security.
Many students at Stansted Airport College say their first visit to the Aerozone shaped their ambitions.
Jax Pateman, a Level 3 aeronautical engineering student, said: "I visited the Aerozone when I was in primary school, and I’m now studying Level 3 Aeronautical Engineering at Stansted Airport College.
"Going to the Aerozone helped me understand the opportunities in aviation – it’s why I came here."
To mark the milestone, Year 2 pupils from Felsted Primary School were invited to a special celebration on Thursday, June 5.
The class enjoyed a day of learning and discovery, along with cake, balloons, face painting, and a visit from an ice cream van.
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Their teacher, Mrs Muir, said: "Our visit to the Aerozone was the absolute highlight of the term.
"The children were buzzing with excitement from the moment we arrived and loved every minute, especially getting to see the planes up close after learning about the history of flight in class.
"The 10th birthday celebrations made the day even more special, it’s one they’ll remember for a long time."
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