Members of Oxfordshire Deaf Children's Society explored RAF Brize Norton and learned about the RAF during a recent visit.
The children and their families were given a guided tour of the base in Carterton, offering a unique look into the world of aviation and the military.
The visit was designed to be an engaging and educational experience for the deaf children and young people supported by the society.
They were also given a tour of the Parachute Training School, where they had the chance to jump from the fan descent trainer, a free-fall simulator.
The Parachute Training School personnel also explained various equipment and their roles, describing the parachuting process while the visitors were on the back of a mock aircraft.
This was followed by a science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) activity with Squadron Leader Andy Marshall, one of the station’s STEM ambassadors.
The children and their families made paper aeroplanes and tested their designs with a competition to see which flew the furthest.
Squadron Leader Marshall ended the visit with a tour of the station’s Heritage Centre, which he curates, to showcase the history and artefacts since the station opened in 1937.
Sergeant Chris West, Parachute Training School instructor, said: "It was fantastic to host Oxfordshire’s Deaf Children's Society.
"We already knew they were going to be brave individuals living with hearing impairments, but they all went above and beyond that by trying out our Parachute Exit Trainer, a piece of equipment I have personally witnessed a few soldiers massively intimidated by.
"I really hope this visit has helped inspire them to explore their interests further, who knows, perhaps even in parachuting?"
The visit was part of the society's efforts to provide enriching experiences for deaf children and to promote inclusivity and accessibility in all areas of life.
It works to support deaf children and their families across Oxfordshire, ensuring they have the same opportunities as their hearing peers.
Anita Jack, RAF Brize Norton media officer, who hosted the visit, added: "It was fantastic to welcome Oxfordshire Children's Deaf Society to station.
"As this is something that is very personal to me with impaired hearing it was amazing to have Children's Deaf Society here on station. It was fantastic to show total inclusion.
"Many thanks to all who made this day happen, the children and parents had a great time."
The society provides a range of services, including support groups, information resources, social events, and advocacy, to ensure deaf children have access to education, social activities, and opportunities.
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