Harold in space

The Life Education Trust’s iconic mascot Harold the Giraffe, is set to become the first New Zealander (and giraffe) to go to space. Harold will be part of the NASA’s Mission STS-128, lead by Commander Rick Sturckow, pilot Kevin Ford and other members Patrick Forrester, José Hernández, John “Danny” Olivas, Christer Fuglesang and Nicole Stott. While Harold is in space, children can email the space station and ask questions via an educational website (www.haroldinspace.co.nz). Life Education Trust Chairman, Angus Fletcher, is confident the exercise will go a long way to encourage children to be the best they can be. “Harold’s trip is a huge deal for the children who know him. They love him and respect the values he brings into the classroom. The fact that he has achieved his dream will reiterate to children that no matter who they are, or where they come from, they are special and if they work hard to make their dreams come true then they will,” says Fletcher.