Airshow London is seeking volunteers to serve as group leaders for its annual Education Day, scheduled for Sept. 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event, held in partnership with the Thames Valley District School Board and the London District Catholic School Board, is expected to host more than 5,000 Grade 6 students and some high school participants.

Education Day invites young students to explore a variety of aircrafts, interact with aviation professionals, and participate in educational exhibits. The event relies heavily on volunteers to ensure attendees have a smooth and engaging experience.

“Our group leaders help inspire the children’s love of aviation and ensure the children’s experience possible,” said Assistant to the Associate Dean at Fanshawe College, Tracy Vanderwerf.

Group leaders will meet a busload of students from various elementary schools in London and surrounding areas. They will guide the students through different stations, ensuring they fully engage with the aircraft displays, pilots and crews on-site. The goal is to foster a sense of excitement and curiosity about aviation from childhood.

Airshow London volunteers will receive training at the end of August to prepare for the event. Vanderwerf noted that the training notification will be sent through the volunteer portal, where individuals can sign up and receive the necessary information.

Airshow London is looking for group leaders with a background in aviation.

“Whether they grew up in cadets, are aviation students, or are pilots themselves, we welcome them all,” Vanderwerf said.

There will also be various vendors set up there from the aviation community including Fanshawe College, Western University, Thames Valley District School Board aviation program, and more. After they are done exploring, they will be able to watch The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows practice their performance as they prepare for the weekend.

Airshow London’s Education Day aims to nurture a passion for aviation among young students and introduce them to the career opportunities in the field. Airshow London’s Education Day aims to nurture a passion for aviation among young students and introduce them to the career opportunities in the field.

“In order to ensure that these children have the best experience possible, we rely on volunteers from the aviation community,” Vanderwerf said.

Those interested in volunteering can sign up at airshowlondon.com. After registering on the volunteer portal, individuals can select the Education Day group leader shift. For additional questions, potential volunteers can contact the director of volunteers at jennifer@nullairshowlondon.com or contact Tracy Vanderwerf at tvanderwerf@nullfanshawec.ca.

Vanderwerf remarked that a critical highlight of SkyDrive is Education Day, which is tailored explicitly for Grade 6 students. This day, dedicated to sparking a passion for aviation in young minds, offers a hands-on, immersive experience that could shape their futures.

Education Day coincides with the 2024 SkyDrive show on Sept. 13, 14, and 15, recognized as North America’s best airshow for three consecutive years. With the event fast approaching, now is the perfect time to get involved and inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.