Parkhill Junior School pupils launched their learning sky high recently with a brilliant day focused on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Ilford Recorder: Parkhill children watch the rocket explode. Picture: ParkhillParkhill children watch the rocket explode. Picture: Parkhill (Image: Archant)

Children at the school in Lord Avenue, Clayhall, held a rocket launching competition last week.

Set across the school, pupils designed the contraption which fired water bottles nearly 50ft and saw chip cones shoot even higher.

Future astronauts, engineers and rocket scientists were everywhere, being inspired.

Science leader Patrick Bawtree said: “These kind of experiences shape our children, giving them the awe and wonder of science and inspiring their futures.”

Children across Parkhill Junior expressed their excitement.

Zaina, from Year 3, said: “I really enjoyed making the rockets with a professional scientist.

“After we had designed our rockets, we charged the electric batteries on the launch pad before shooting them into the air.

“Ours went an impressive 75ft.”

Mahja, from Year 6, added: “This has been the best day.”