Soaring to New Heights: Year 7 DT Excursion

On 23 and 24 October, 196 of our budding engineers and aviators took to the skies (well, indoors!) at the iFly Indoor Skydiving Center in Penrith.

This excursion was perfectly aligned with our current topic, “Come Fly with Me,” which focuses on the exploration of fundamental aerodynamic concepts: lift, drag, and thrust. The iFly experience provided Cranbrook students with a remarkable opportunity to not only learn about these principles in theory but to feel them in action.

As our young aviators suited up and prepared for their flights, there was a palpable sense of anticipation and wonder in the air. For many, this was their inaugural experience with indoor skydiving, and it certainly proved to be a real “leap of faith.” The rush of wind, the weightlessness, and the sheer thrill of being suspended mid-air left an indelible mark on each student.

One of the most exciting aspects of the excursion was the hands-on experimentation with different hand and arm positions to manipulate drag characteristics. It was awe-inspiring to witness our Year 7s actively applying their knowledge of aerodynamics in real-time. They quickly grasped how slight adjustments could lead to significant changes in their flight dynamics.

Through this unique experience, Year 7 students gained a profound appreciation for the complexities of flight. They witnessed firsthand how the interplay of forces governs the art of soaring through the air. This tangible encounter with aerodynamics will undoubtedly serve as a solid foundation for their future endeavors in Design and Technology and their current Glider Project.

We extend our thanks to the iFly Indoor Skydiving Center for their expertise and organisation throughout the day. Their guidance ensured that our students had a safe and memorable experience.

The Cranbrook TAS staff express our gratitude to parents for your ongoing support of these enriching learning experiences. Together, we are helping your son spread their wings and reach for the skies!

James King
Excursion Coordinator / TAS Teacher