By Mrs Martin (Head of Year 5)

On Monday morning, Year 5 were delighted to welcome Andrew Done from Kennet Aviation, based at the Shuttleworth Collection, as part of their Unit of Inquiry, How We Organise Ourselves.

The session brought learning to life as the girls explored how forces influence the design and performance of products that serve community needs, linking directly to their current Line of Inquiry. Through discussion, questioning and hands-on ‘flight’, pupils investigated different forms of transport, examined the forces acting on an aeroplane, and explored how design choices can improve performance and purpose.

This real-world insight allowed the girls to deepen their scientific understanding while thinking like designers and problem-solvers, considering how products evolve in response to need, environment and function. It was a highly engaging experience that sparked curiosity, critical thinking and plenty of thoughtful questions.