Aviation STEM School Field Trips
for Transition Year Students

Inspire your students with an unforgettable aviation field trip
to UPiLOT Flight Simulator Centre in Dublin

Aviation STEM Experience for TY & Year 11/12 Students

Whether your students are in Transition Year (ROI) or Year 11/12 (NI), our Aviation STEM Field Trip connects classroom learning to the dynamic world of aviation — through simulator flying, ATC scenarios, STEM workshops, and direct exposure to real-world careers.

What to Expect on the Day

Pre Flight in Briefing Room

Group Briefing

The day kicks off with a welcome session where students are introduced to the structure of the day's activities:
‣ STEM Workshop
‣ ATC & Flight Simulator Sessions
‣ Aviation Careers Workshop
‣ Attendance Certificates

Two school boys preparing for takeoff

Flight Simulator Sessions

Students step into the cockpit of our state-of-the-art flight simulators for a hands-on experience like no other. Each group rotates through two simulator sessions once as Captain and once as First Officer.

30 mins as Pilot in Command (PF) during takeoff, enroute, approach and landing.
30 mins as co-pilot (PM), managing avionics and radios following ATC instructions to successfully navigate from one airport to another.

Girl operating ATC station under instruction

Air Traffic Control Station

Students work in pairs at our instructor station equipped with a live radar display and a tower view. Acting as air traffic controllers, they will coordinate flights between our simulators, using standard phraseology and radio procedures.
This immersive experience builds communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills — all while offering a thrilling insight into one of aviation’s most vital careers.

Students attending Careers Workshop

Careers & STEM Aviation Workshop 

Careers in Aviation:
Explore the world of aviation careers! Inspiring future aviators by showcasing real career paths—from pilots and engineers to air traffic controllers.
Learn about training routes, progression opportunities, and what it takes to thrive in the industry.
Includes an interactive Q&A with aviation professionals.

STEM in Aviation Workshop:
A team-based workshop that dives into the science behind flight! Students take part in group activities and navigation challenges that highlight key STEM concepts—while building collaboration and critical thinking skills in a fun and interactive way.

School Children flying simulator

Program Details

Ideal for: TY (ROI) or Year 11/12 (NI), STEM & Careers Day
Pricing: €75 per student
Duration: Half day program (~4 hours)
Group Size: 8 – 14 students per half day group
Location: Swords, Dublin K67 DV76

What Makes This Experience Unforgettable

STEM in Action

Explore real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts and the pivotal role of cutting-edge technology in modern aviation

STEM
Flight Simulators

Operate state-of-the-art simulators to understand fundamental aviation principles like aerodynamics, navigation, and aircraft operations.

Flight Simulator Throttle
Aviation Exposure

Ignite interest in aviation careers such as pilot training, aircraft engineering, and air traffic control. Insights into the diverse opportunities within the aviation industry.
Inspiring students to consider non-traditional, global career paths.

Global Aviation
Skill Development

Learn teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making in realistic flight simulation scenarios.
Learn communication techniques to Interact effectively with peers and industry professionals, building confidence and enhancing professional communication skills.

Skills Development Graphic
Hands-On Learning

Experience the thrill and complexity of flying, with activities tailored to engage and educate. Working in pairs or small groups, students will participate in aviation workshops and ATC & flight simulator sessions

Global Pathway
Unique Experience 

Create lasting memories while combining education with excitement in a unique aviation setting. Students will experience a thrilling and memorable day out and will leave curious, confident, and inspired

Connections

FAQ

A half-day programme where Transition Year students experience flying our Boeing 737 simulators, taking on the role of Air Traffic Control, and engaging in aviation/STEM workshops.

Each session runs for approx.4 hours. Schools can choose a morning slot (09:00–13:00) or an afternoon slot (14:00–18:00)

Not at all. The programme is designed for every student — not just those already considering aviation. It’s about broadening horizons, discovering new career options, and uncovering hidden talents in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Students leave more self-confident, with fresh ideas about paths they might never have imagined.

They step into the captain’s seat to fly and land a Boeing 737, with classmates acting as co-pilot and ATC. Everyone rotates roles so each student gets equal time.

Bookings are available only through schools. Individual pupils cannot book places. Each group must be accompanied by a teacher or TY coordinator.

During the school year on Thursdays and Fridays, from September to May.

We recommend booking at least one term ahead to secure your preferred dates.

At UPiLOT Flight Simulator Centre, Swords Enterprise Park – just 5 minutes from Dublin Airport. Free parking is available for buses and cars

Yes. The simulators are fixed-base (no motion) and the entire experience is supervised by UPiLOT instructors, with a teacher or TY coordinator present.

Yes, our facility is wheelchair accessible – including briefing room/classroom, waiting area and wheelchair accessible bathroom. However, the interior of the 737 flight decks is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible due to the confined physical layout of the cockpit. Students who cannot access the cockpit can still take part fully in ATC and workshop activities.

Yes, each participant receives a certificate of completion for their TY portfolio.

Nothing — just enthusiasm. All materials are provided.

The programme lasts 4 hours, so light snacks and drinks are permitted on-site. No hot food or drinks are permitted on site. Drinks and snacks are allowed only in the briefing and waiting areas. No food or drinks are allowed inside the simulators.
Our equipment is highly specialised and expensive, so we ask all students to treat it with care and respect at all times.

Teachers don’t fly, but they are welcome to observe during the sessions.

No. Student mobile phones are not permitted on the premises.

Get in touch using the contact form at the bottom of the page

Ready to Book Your School Group?

Email us at schools@upilot.ie for additional information or to check availability. Alternatively you can use the contact form below and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

Contact us

Address

UPiLOT Flight Simulator Centre
G10 Swords Enterprise Park,
Swords, Dublin, Ireland
K67 DV76

Social
Contacts