Two pupils from Year 10, Zack Green and Dominic Brown, were treated to a ride in a very unusual mode of transport; a helicopter! As a reward for winning the Eaton Prize, Dominic and Zack were both given the opportunity to enjoy a ride in the helicopter, over Henley, Shiplake and Stokenchurch; even viewing their homes from the sky!
The Eaton Prize, named for Old Viking Bill Eaton, is an award that recognises the two pupils who have shown the most significant academic progression across the year. The prize is only awarded for Year 9 pupils, and both Dominic and Zack displayed an incredible effort throughout their lessons last year. The prize, awarded in the form of a silver plate on Speech Day at the end of the Summer term, is sponsored by Mr Eaton. As an added bonus for displaying such dedication to school careers and winning the plate, Mr Eaton invites each winning pupil to experience a flight in his own helicopter, which he himself pilots.
In an afternoon that harboured hints of the upcoming James Bond thriller, the two award-winning pupils were ready and waiting at 3.00pm on the Front Field as the helicopter came to land. More safety conscious than 007, the pilot gave both pupils a safety briefing before Zack, who was up first for the exhilarating flight, donned headphones and a microphone and climbed aboard. After soaring above the surrounding areas and taking in local landmarks – Henley Bridge, the Thames, and even the College itself! – Mr Eaton dropped Zack back to school, ready to take Dominic on his exciting journey.
Both Dominic and Zack behaved impeccably, enjoying the once in a lifetime opportunity of riding in a helicopter over their homes, giving them a whole new perspective on the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside.
