Rising High at RAF Valley

Jon Egging Trust posted on 12th October 2017

As part of our “Gallwn / Yes We Can” project, students from Ysgol Llanfawr visited 202 (R) Squadron on 12th October. The focus of the day was building confidence and using teamwork skills, particularly the importance of communication.

The 13 students were met by Sgt Richie Micklethwaite who talked through a Powerpoint presentation about the role of 202 (R) Sqn and the importance of teamwork between the pilots, winchman and winch operator. This was then put into practice with the students rescuing each other using the winch, in a simulated rescue situation. One student was the winch man, and had to use clear hand signals to communicate with the winch operator, another student. The other student was the person injured, and was successfully rescued by being winched up into a pretend helicopter. This task tested their communication skills as well as their confidence. They also showed great empathy towards the casualty.

The students also experienced the Virtual Reality Trainer, so they could appreciate how vital communication is between the pilots and the winch operator.

“I liked going in the hangar and seeing the two helicopters. One is called a Griffin. We were saving people and we met someone called Seaweed. After today’s session, I feel happy!” Mason, 10

They thoroughly enjoyed the experience! After enjoying lunch at the mess, FS Neil Madden delivered a series of sessions about teamwork. The students had to build a tower using blocks, but they were only allowed to use strings and a hook to pick the blocks up; this task needed communication, especially once half the team had to wear blindfolds!

“I liked the lady jumping off the boat on the Virtual Reality Trainer. Today I have learnt to be a team.” Jimmy, 10

The children learned so much about the skills required to work in a team: trust, communication (verbal and non-verbal), helping each other, encouragement, empathising and respect. Well done to the Year 6s for working so hard and giving everything a go! Thank you to all the personnel who helped from 202(R) Sqn for the morning session, and to FS Madden and Flt Lt Bottrill for delivering the afternoon session.