Out of this world experience for students returning from space school

Sixth-form students reflect on trip to Houston

Three sixth-form students have described a trip to the United Space School in America as ‘phenomenal’.

They spent two weeks planning a mission to Mars at the base in Houston in Texas after winning scholarships.

Leo Crowe, Charlie Needham and William Shooter were granted the opportunity from River Advisers which has been sponsoring students to attend since 2000.

Ciara Sowerby – a previous scholarship winner - also travelled to Houston as a student mentor for the second year running.

Leo, from Ramsey Grammar School, said: “Space school was absolutely phenomenal I really had the time of my life.

“What surprised me was just how much experience all the teachers and speakers had whether related to NASA or the space industry in general.

“It was an incredible opportunity to listen to them talk about their fields of expertise.

“Space school has helped with my university plans – before I was a bit unsure whether to do maths, physics or engineering at university.”

Fellow Ramsey Grammar School pupil Charlie Needham said: “I had a wonderful time in Texas and am really grateful for the opportunity.

“We got to meet people from all over the world who all shared a similar interest in space exploration.

“The trip has given me a better perspective on what I hope to study at university making me now lean more towards engineering rather than physics.”

William, who attends St Ninian’s High School, said: “The Space school experience far exceeded my already high expectations.

“Working alongside other scholars from around the world, sharing ideas and working through logistical problems was an amazing experience.

“We got to meet, spend time with and hear from some truly inspirational people from the space industry.”

The trio of students have been presented with certificates by Education, Sport and Culture Minister Daphne Caine.

She said: “It was a pleasure to meet Leo, Charlie and William and hear about their incredible experiences in Houston.

“We are grateful to the team at River Advisers for the opportunities they continue to provide Isle of Man students and I would encourage all current year 12 students who have an interest in STEM subjects and the space industry to enter the competition to win scholarships to next year’s space school.”

The competition to win scholarships for Space School 2025 will open soon – details will be posted HERE.