This is it.
The next generation.
Aerospace New Zealand is pleased to present the Aotearoa Aerospace Academy - an educational programme inspiring the next generation of Astronomers, Engineers and Space Scientists.
Spark
Sparking curiosity in the next generation in all things Aerospace and STEM.
Inform
Providing education and accessible resources for Aerospace and STEM learning for all.
Nurture
Inclusively empowering, guiding and encouraging Aotearoa's young people, to pursue their aerospace dreams!
Our First Event
An Introduction to Aerospace and Rocketry
Aerospace New Zealand AAA, ChristchurchNZ, UC Aerospace and the Air Force Museum of New Zealand have partnered to bring you the very first STEM event offered by the Aotearoa Aerospace Academy.
In the first workshop, attendees learnt about the solar system on a space adventure inside a Portable Planetarium Star Dome. High School students will be introduced to Stellarium Webb so you can see constellations and learn about planets. Attendees took home a Star Wheel that you can use to look at the night sky in Aotearoa.
In the second workshop, attendees learnt how to make a model rocket, which was launched on the same day with an A or B class rocket motor. It provides a unique opportunity for attendees with an interest in Aerospace to get a taste of building and launching their own rockets.
Educational Resources
In addition to In-Person workshops and School visits, we also offer Aerospace Career Pathways Event Recordings, Aerospace Career Case Studies (coming soon!) and a Career Pathways to Aerospace Resource (coming soon!)
For the younger rocket scientists among us we offer colouring sheets, YouTube stories and an Activity Workbook, all below.
House of Science Boxes
"3,2,1 Liftoff"
Raise your students' scientific literacy through hands on learning about rocketry and propulsion linked to the science capabilities with the interactive House of Science Box "3,2,1 Liftoff." By completing a series of activities related to rocketry, propulsion and aerodynamics, your students can gather and intepret data to support ideas around aerospace engineering and be inspired into the exciting roles in the aerospace sector.
“Up, Up & Away / Whakarewa Ake, Ki Runga Rawa”
Fly, float or fall? The definition of flight is explored – and beware, this is harder than it sounds! Students discuss which objects fly and how. Paper planes are of course a must, but we introduce fair testing for the young ones – who can make the best plane? How do we define ‘best’? How can we measure that? Students also make a variety of ‘wings’ and test the best shape for creating lift. Finally, there is a technology challenge for the older students – can they make their pig fly? Great open-ended inquiry learning here.
"Spaced Out"
Increase your student's scientific literacy through the nature of science by exploring the origins of the universe, the solar system, galaxies, impact craters on the moon, astronaut clothes and satellite technology with exciting hands on learning options. You students will feel connected to their place in the universe and motivated to continue to study astronomy and aerospace pathways after their practical adventures through space.
“Climate Change / Huringa Āhuarangi”
Students and teachers alike will love the comprehensive introduction to this important topic. From Earth’s system ‘Jenga’ to ocean acidification, this kit covers it all. Key vocabulary is introduced, and students learn about the importance of plants as the ‘lungs’ of the Earth. Thermometers in jars are used to simulate the greenhouse effect and there are some engaging activities to demonstrate the importance of water to our planet. A total of eight interactive activities will leave everyone better informed and empowered to care for our planet.
Colouring Sheets
Click to download!
Activities
Click to download!
Careers in Aerospace Events
Event Recap
Event Recording
Previous Event Recording
Keen to get involved?
See our AAA Sponsorship Prospectus below!
Contact Us: aaa@aerospace.org.nz, or submit a form here.
2023 Sponsors and Supporters
Directory: STEM Outreach
Programs and Resources
There are many wonderful programs throughout Aotearoa encouraging tamariki and rangatahi to get excited about STEM. Listed below are some of these programs and organisations.
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Training for Young Explorers
In an engaging hands-on adventure, students experience NASA and enjoy the thrill of astronaut training while developing effective STEAM skills for their futures.
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Outreach on rocket construction, aerodynamics and launch for students and educators
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The Air Force Museum of New Zealand offers a variety of activities including a school holiday program. They also offer a variety of resources and support for educators visiting the Museum. The Aerospace New Zealand AAA Kidsfest Event was held in partnership with the Museum.
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The Air New Zealand Aviation Institute offers aviation and aerospace education and training programs. While primarily focused on aviation, they provide insights into the aerospace industry and offer opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in aerospace.
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Tūhura Tuarangi – Aotearoa in Space showcase
Discover interactive showcase Tūhura Tuarangi – Aotearoa in Space in a city or town near you.
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CATE is a professional organisation for people working in the fields of career and transition education.
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On-site astronomy with a range of telescopes including Cowans Hill and Mt John, available to take school groups. Working towards outreach programmes.
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Providing teachers with professional development. They develop relevant, comprehensive resource kits with all the materials needed to carry out engaging science lessons.
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Tēnā koe. Nau mai rā ki te kaupapa o Inspiring the Future. Inspiring the Future is an exciting free programme for schools across Aotearoa.
Based on local and international research, it challenges stereotypes that can limit young people’s potential – by introducing them to role models from the world of work. -
To assist us on our Matariki journey, Te Arawhiti has published this resource to celebrate and educate readers about the traditions and cultural importance of Matariki.
The booklet and online resource were created by Ahorangi Rangi Mātāmua to assist whānau to celebrate Matariki. -
Milky-Way.Kiwi is a social enterprise.
Every social enterprise has a beneficial goal, ours is to inspire people to think about our collective future and how they can actively contribute to it. We believe that quality science education with an added cosmic perspective can achieve that. -
The New Zealand Rocketry Association organises various events and activities to promote rocketry and space education. They offer workshops, competitions, and launch events for students interested in aerospace.
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Careers in space: Astronauts may be the most well-known space workers, but there’s a wide range of opportunities available for a space career! Find out more!
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Aerospace Education Programme by Rocket Lab: Rocket Lab, a leading aerospace company in New Zealand, offers an educational program aimed at inspiring and engaging students in aerospace activities. The program includes interactive workshops, rocket launches, and educational resources.
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Exploring space – resources including ‘Working in the space sector’ and ‘Can I work in the space industry?’
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Space Up! is a club for students attending high school in Aotearoa New Zealand who are passionate about space, or are just curious to learn more about space and the space sector - facilitated by Women in Space Aotearoa New Zealand (WISANZ).
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Professional Learning Development for teachers and space education programmes for your students through immersive experiences.
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Located in Wellington, Space Place is an interactive museum and observatory that offers educational programs for students and the general public. They have workshops, stargazing sessions, and exhibits that cover various aspects of aerospace and space science.
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Located in Auckland, Stardome offers a range of educational programs and workshops related to astronomy and space science. They have dedicated programs that cover topics such as rocketry, space exploration, and the solar system.
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Student360 offers a taste of the world of work before students finish secondary school. They want to help students understand their strengths and skills as they explore a future career pathway.
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This organization brings interactive science and technology exhibits to schools and communities across New Zealand. They have exhibits and workshops on aerospace-related topics, including rocket science, aviation, and space exploration.
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The Wonder Project is Engineering New Zealand’s free programme for schools, designed to get young Kiwis excited about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
Learn More -
WiE CAN is a 5 day/4 night Women in Engineering residential programme featuring a range of interactive workshops, inspiring presentations, and fun social activities. You will be immersed in student life and experience the range of engineering subjects on offer at UC.