Hot air balloon lands at Rucstall Primary School

Children at Rucstall Primary School were in awe when a hot air balloon touched down in the school grounds.

‘Freddie the Fox’ hot air balloon was flown to the school and the pilots showed children how to inflate, operate and safely land the aircraft.

Mrs Earl, one of the school’s teachers, took flight to show the children how the balloon ascends into air. 

READ MORE: ‘Disgraceful’ – Royal Mail postie replaced after dumping letters in Basingstoke

Freddie The Fox lands at Rucstall Primary School (Image: Rucstall Primary School) As well as this, James Ketchell, an adventurer from Basingstoke who is known for being the first person to complete the triathlon of rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, summiting Mount Everest and cycling around the world, also visited the school and gave a talk to Key Stage Two children about his expeditions and inspired them to consider that they can achieve anything they wish to.  His visit was sponsored by Barratt Homes.

Ruth Griffiths, headteacher at Rucstall Primary School, said: “These visits are incredibly important in broadening children’s mindsets and showing them different opportunities for their futures.

“Alongside the outstanding quality of education that we offer, we believe that these experiences are invaluable and are grateful to organisations and individuals who support us in providing them for our children and community.

“These events have been arranged for children to inspire and broaden their horizons.”

The school has an open event on Thursday, January 9 at 9.15am for anyone looking for places for September 2025.

Readers can book a place by contacting adminoffice@rucstall.hants.sch.uk

Readers can find out more about James Ketchell by visiting https://jamesketchell.net/