Staff and students at St Boniface’s Catholic College in Manadon Park were treated to a spectacular visit by the Royal Navy’s Westland WS-61 Sea King helicopter today as part of their careers drive encouraging students to consider careers in the services.
Much to the delight of the students, the school’s Headteacher, Mr Maslen arranged for the visit to really make the day memorable.
The landing was broadcast live on the St Boniface’s Facebook page (Facebook.com/stbonifaces) and viewed by many parents, friends and past pupils; it was also watched in several primary schools around the city.
Year 9 student Morgan McLean said
“My dad is in the Royal Navy, and this reminded me of how proud I am to be part of a service family, it was such an exciting experience!”
The college has recently launched its “First For Forces Families” campaign to recognise the unique challenges service children go through at school, and highlight the support that is available to both the children and their parents.
In June, the college was awarded the MKC Heroes Secondary School of the Year Award at a gala dinner attended by their service children and Mrs Amanda Coot, who is the MKC Heroes Lead at the school. Mrs Coot’s unending support for service children and their families was recognised at the event.
She said,
“Events like this not only enthuse and excite the students at St Boniface’s and helps them consider a career in the services; but it really helps to give the service children pride in their parents’ work, and realise their own importance in our college community.”
A recent Ofsted visit recognised that the 162-year old school was ‘rapidly improving’. Those wishing to see for themselves are welcome to attend the upcoming Open Evening on September 18 from 5.30pm; there, service families can also meet Mrs Coot and some of the school’s service children.
