Five Blue Skies students from two of JET’s Blue Skies schools have enjoyed an out-of-this-world experience at US Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama. They have taken on astronaut-style challenges, put their STEM skills to the test and discovered the power of teamwork.
Established in 1982, Space Camp aims to inspire the next generation of explorers, scientists, teachers and engineers. Through immersive experiences and hands-on STEM challenges, it encourages young people to explore their potential, develop new skills and discover exciting future career opportunities in space, science and aviation.
Henry, Kaycee and Lily, Year 9 students from Downham Market Academy, and George and Max, Year 8 students from Kings Academy Brune Park, took part in the six-day camp in July 2026. Accompanied by a teacher from each school, the students had a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of space exploration and experience learning beyond the classroom.
Made possible through the generous support of Northrop Grumman and the Northrop Grumman Foundation, the experience gave the students the chance to challenge themselves, explore their potential and take part in an inspiring international learning experience.
During the week, the students trained like astronauts, worked together on challenging team missions and tackled hands-on engineering activities designed to test their problem-solving and communication skills. Through these activities, the students experienced first-hand the importance of collaboration, resilience and clear communication when working towards a shared goal. The camp also offered an opportunity to meet other young people from different backgrounds, exchange ideas and build friendships while discovering more about the people, skills and innovation behind space exploration.
Robin Soprano, Vice President, U.S Space and Rocket Centre said: “While students take part in immersive STEM challenges that build confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills, educators embark on their own professional development journey, gaining valuable insights, practical experience and transferable techniques to inspire future generations. Bringing together participants from different backgrounds creates a truly unique learning environment, and we are proud to support both young people and educators as they develop the skills, knowledge and ambition that will help shape the future.”
The students are part of JET’s Blue Skies programme, which supports young people over three years through a STEM-inspired syllabus. Designed for young people who face barriers to learning, the programme provides sustained support, opportunities to develop confidence and access to inspirational teams and individuals who can help them explore their future ambitions.
We would like to thank Northrop Grumman and the Northrop Grumman Foundation for making this extraordinary opportunity possible. Their generous and continued support gives young people the chance to experience something they might never otherwise have imagined, opening doors to new experiences, broadening horizons and helping them recognise their own potential. Opportunities like Space Camp can have a lasting impact, inspiring curiosity, strengthening confidence and encouraging young people to aim high as they consider their futures.
For Henry, Kaycee, Lily, George and Max, Space Camp 2026 was about much more than an introduction to life as an astronaut, but an opportunity to discover new interests, develop valuable skills, build friendships and see how far curiosity, determination and teamwork can take them.
