Thornhill girls follow Amelia Earhart and take to skies

Jessica was among the girls to take to the skies above Derry

"It’s really empowering for young girls and boys also to learn about the history of our town."

Jessica was one of a group of Thornhill College classmates who took to the skies above Londonderry, retracing the flight path taken by the famous aviator Amelia Earhart more than 90 years ago.

It was their prize for winning a STEM challenge which encourages interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

"We constructed a plane and there was various competitions and challenges to see whose plane flew the furthest with the best design. We also designed jumpers to wear on the day so it was a good experience, added Jessica.

The Thornhill team designed and constructed a plane as part of the challenge

After impressing during the challenge at Ulster University (UU), Magee, they were rewarded with a helicopter flight.

The STEM competition sets the students a range of tasks to test their problem-solving skills, creativity, knowledge and teamwork, as well as celebrating the contribution of Amelia Earhart to aviation.

On 21 May 1931 Amelia Earhart landed in a field in Ballyarnett on the outskirts of Derry and became the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic.

The organisers said they wanted to honour what they described as the “remarkable legacy of the famous aviator”.

“We all did something unique to be chosen to do the competition and even the challenge itself at STEM was such a fun day.

"We all did different challenges, the interview, the poster making, the plane designing, even cutting out the plane from the cardboard was really fun," said Lauren.

Teacher Jane Casey says it is important girls stick with STEM subjects

The year nine students from across Northern Ireland completed a series of challenges.

Jane Casey, who teaches Technology and Design at the school, said it was important that girls were encouraged to stick with STEM subjects at school.

'That's where the jobs are going to be'

The girls' helicopter ride flew over the city where Earhart touched down more than 90 years ago

"The challenge was all related to Amelia Earhart - the promotion of her and what she brought to the city and raising awareness for that and for the STEM subjects for our girls and for the community.

"So it's really important for us, especially being an all-girls school, raising awareness of STEM.

"That’s the way of the future now, that’s where the jobs are going to be."

Estela said the helicopter flight was amazing

For student Estela it’s a trip she will never forget.

“I think it was a really good experience.

"I’ve never been in a helicopter and I never thought I would be in one. I’ve been looking forward to this day like forever. And I finally got it and it was just so amazing. I could see like my house and my school, everything.”

'Never give up and pursue your dreams'

Organisers said they wanted to honour what they described as the "remarkable legacy of the famous aviator"

And her thoughts on Amelia Earhart?

“I think she’s achieved a lot and for young people.

"I think she inspires people to never give up and pursue your dreams.”

Clare Doherty, one of the competition's organisers and head of technology at St. Mary’s College in Derry said: “The legacy of Amelia Earhart shines brighter than ever, and many more young minds have been encouraged to explore the vast possibilities of STEM fields and dare to dream.”