Thompson Aero Seating Taster Event

Mrs Turner took a group of Year 13 pupils this week, with a keen interest in Engineering, to a taster day in Thompson Aero Seating in Banbridge. This was a thoroughly enjoyable and insightful event which has served to inspire and excite all who attended to pursue a career in Engineering. Here is a short description of the day from one of the pupils who attended, Rachel Wilkinson:

Pupil Perspective

I recently had the privilege of visiting Thompson Aero Seating in Banbridge, and it was a truly insightful experience. From the moment we arrived, the team was welcoming and professional. The well-organised tour offered a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s facilities, highlighting their innovation, efficiency, and commitment to quality.

A standout moment was a hands-on group activity where we tackled a real-world design challenge: planning a cabin seating layout. It required teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, and revealed often-overlooked considerations such as weight tolerances, seat angles, and passenger capacity.

We also witnessed a safety test using a sensor-equipped dummy launched by hydraulic rams to simulate crash conditions. The level of precision was remarkable—even the dummy's shoes were regulated to ensure testing accuracy.

On the factory floor, we observed repetitive motor testing in reclining chairs, monitoring current and temperature variations. We also saw robotic mechanisms in action—an impressive blend of technology and precision—and even had the chance to test the ergonomics of various seat prototypes, including first-class models.

Overall, the visit was both inspiring and educational. Thompson Aero Seating clearly values innovation, safety, and collaboration. I left with a much deeper appreciation for the complexity of design behind aircraft seating and am grateful for the opportunity.

Rachel Wilkinson