Heathrow Young Explorers

Heathrow Young Explorers is a two-hour challenge delivered to Year 6 pupils attending primary schools local to the airport. With support from real Heathrow volunteers, pupils use 3D modelling software to design a transport solution to make travel to and through the airport even more sustainable. Pupils are introduced to the Skills Builder essential skills and a diverse range of careers at the airport to help bring Heathrow to life. After learning about the airport, pupils work in teams to design a sustainable transport solution, and use their speaking skills to present to the class and Heathrow volunteers. At the end of the session, feedback is given by the Heathrow team and winners are announced. In 2021 more than 1,200 Year 6 pupils completed the challenge.

Heathrow Young Explorers (HYE) uses the Skills Builder skills and logos to introduce the essential skills to pupils. The skill names and definitions are used consistently throughout the programme. The importance of the skills are clearly communicated, and linked to real careers at the airport. The programme provides opportunities for students to use the skills - such as teamwork, leadership, aiming high, speaking and listening. Students work in teams to design the 3D model and then present to the class. Students are encouraged to assign themselves roles within the team. The essential skills are communicated throughout. Pupils are prompted throughout the session to consider how they use the skills in each activity, and these questions are asked at the appropriate step 3/4 level for each skill. The programme is complemented with a pre-activity led by teachers, where pupils learn about sustainability and are introduced to the Skills Builder skills. Each pupil is given a Skills Passport after the session to record how they've used the Skills Builder essential skills as part of the session and reflect where they sit for each essential skill.