Pupils and staff at Great Bedwyn and from Oare Primary School were treated to an unforgettable experience when helicopter pilot Rich Pillans flew in and landed a beautifully restored 1945 Bell 47 helicopter right on the school field.
The historic aircraft took centre stage during the school’s STEM Week (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), as Rich and a team of Boeing STEM ambassadors delivered hands-on workshops and inspiring activities for every class.
Billy, a Year 6 pupil, described the moment: “This was a one-of-a-kind experience, seeing an aircraft landing in the middle of the school field.”
Classmate Barney added: “It was quite amazing that we got to sit in an actual helicopter and watch it land at school. The whole day was awesome!”
The school has expressed its heartfelt thanks to the Boeing STEM team, the Bell 47 crew including owner Robert, and Gordon Grant—parent and test flight engineer—for making the day such a memorable success.
Beware engineering works on the Bedwyn/Paddington line
