Pupils from two Moray secondary schools were this week given a unique insight into just what could await them if they chose a career in the Royal Air Force.
The students from Lossiemouth High School and Forres Academy have grown up knowing that the RAF were an important part of their communities – but few had any real ideas over what happened on the other side of the base perimeter fence.
They met and spoke with a variety of station personnel at RAF Lossiemouth including Wing Commander Roger Elliot, Officer Commanding II (Army Co-operation) Squadron, and the Station Warrant Officer ‘Bernie’ Morrell MBE.
The visit also included a chance to handle some of the hi-tech equipment used by service personnel as well as a tour of a state of the art Typhoon aircraft.
Debbie Russell, who teaches at Lossiemouth High School, said: “A fabulous day was had by all at RAF Lossiemouth’s Air Experience Day.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to get a feel for what it is really like to be in the RAF and I have no doubt we have some young people in our school who will be rethinking their career choices at the end of secondary school in favour of the Royal Air Force!”
Also on hand was Mike Burchell who is the deputy head teacher at Forres Academy. He commented: “It was a fantastic day – I really enjoyed it and the pupils certainly had a great day.
“It was valuable for the pupils to see the wide range of career opportunities that exist in the RAF and to get a sense of the ‘family’ spirit that comes from the armed forces. The talks from the personnel gave the pupils inspiration and some really good life messages about being motivated, having respect and integrity.”
This visit formed part of RAF Lossiemouth’s wider engagement with the local community, and is part of a newly formed programme of events, designed to introduce young people to the way of life and ethos of the Royal Air Force.