OKLYNGE SCHOOL VISIT
Ocklynge School, Eastbourne.
The date 8th of May 2002, I received this email :-
Dear Pete,
We are considering running a design technology 'kite making' workshop for our Yr 4 (9 year old) children at school (Eastbourne). Would somebody who knows about kites be able to come and talk to the children about simple kite making (or kite flying, anything to get them really motivated)? We will be running the activity during the week 27-31 May; so early that week would be terrific.
I look forward to hearing from you. Laurie Overnell.
I immediately responded and on the morning of Friday 24th of May duly set off for the school, I could not help wondering just what I had let myself in for, talking to a class of over two hundred 9 year old children.
I eventually arrived at the school and was given a warm reception by Laurie Overnell, who had instigated the visit, and the head of year Barbara Robertson. I was led into a large hall, and promptly set about the task of assembling a variety of kites all around the perimeter of the hall, a task I was still performing when I heard the first Oo’s and Ah’s as the children filed into the hall, and observed the kites.
Once the children were all in, and quietly sitting on the floor, I was duly introduced to them. I must say any fears or doubts I had were totally unfounded, the children behaved impeccably and were a credit to the school and the staff.
After giving a brief history of the kite and its origins, there followed a brisk discussion with the children, I was quite surprised by the children’s knowledge of kites, as I’m sure, were some of the teachers.
I was quite sorry to leave, it was all over so quickly and the children were so enthusiastic.
I said my farewell and returned to Brighton, with a great sense of satisfaction that it had all gone so well.
During the week I thought it would be nice to return to the
school and see the results of the children’s efforts at kite making, I made a few calls and arranged to return with a surprise for the children.
On Friday morning 31st May, I met up with Simon Hennessey, Ray Oakhill and my friend Elsie Barnard and off we went to Ocklinge School, we arrived at approximately 10. 45 am and duly signed in. We were directed to the playing field at the rear of the school where several activities were in full swing. We made our way around the edge of the field, and having established wind direction took up position at the far end.
Having secured a line to the rear of Simon’s Espace, we duly launched the club’s 40ft.Teddy. and large doughnut, I think at that point all other school activities came to a halt! Within a short time the edge of the field was filled with children all eager to fly their creations, so Teddy and doughnut were put away, and the children were soon all running up and down, it was an impressive sight and I’m sure with a little further guidance they will all be up and flying high in no time at all.
Well Done to all who participated in making it a week to remember, and thanks again for inviting the B.K.F. to get involved Pete.
Peter J. Linnell B.K.F. chairperson/coordinator.
KITES & KITE FLYING PART 22
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