Stokesley School involved in the Linnet aircraft Project

Stokesley School will take part in the Linnet Project, a collaborative venture founded by a pilot and experienced aircraft builder, which invites young people to restore a rare, vintage aircraft to full-flight condition, which project organisers hope to fly at air displays and shows.

The original Linnet (Image: LINNET PROJECT) The project is led by a team of volunteers who will guide the students and share their wealth of knowledge in their specialisms throughout the different stages of the project.

The team is assembled of an Aircraft Inspector, a Vintage Aircraft Restoration Specialist, an ex-RAF Engineer, a Test Pilot, STEM Ambassadors, Teachers, Woodworkers and Chartered Engineers, all working with Stokesley students to bring the 1960s aircraft back to life.

The plane that will be converted (Image: LINNET PROJECT) The innovative nature of the project has already earned the team national awards including The Royal Aeronautical Society’s Futures Award, The National Transport Trust William McAlpine Award and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Schools & Clubs Engineering Challenge Fund Award.

Head of Physics at Stokesley School, Abigail Hope, initially got involved with the extracurricular engagement activity and has also organised the training for a series of Royal Institution Primary STEM Masterclasses which has gained Stokesley School a certificate thanking them for supporting the Royal Institution Masterclasses and recognising them as Masterclass Host institution.

The Linnet Project team getting an award (Image: LINNET PROJECT) Mrs Hope said: "We are lucky to have amazing volunteers in our local community who are passionate about aviation and are keen to share their enthusiasm and expertise with our young people."

Recommended reading: 

• DNA probe underway on baby skeleton found under floor of Bishop Auckland home
• Family celebrate remarkable milestone of five generations of women
• Some London councils 'choosing to break the law' moving families to North East

Get more content including the stories that matter to your community from The Northern Echo.

The project incorporates all aspects of STEM learning and encourages students to think critically, solve problems and develop complex solutions. The skills gained through working alongside field experts will have 'immeasurable benefits,' according to the school.  

One student who has taken part in the restoration project said: ‘I've loved the variety of jobs available each week. I come away having learned something new each week and eager to go back the next week to learn more."

 People can keep up to date with the progress of The Linnet Project here.