BENENDEN SCHOOL
The Princess Royal visited Benenden School, which she attended as a pupil, to open the new Science Centre. Having unveiled a plaque at the entrance, HRH toured the building meeting staff and pupils before addressing those people attending the opening ceremony; after which she attended a reception for sponsors and those who played a part in the building of the centre, in the atrium of the building.
Left: Unveiling of the plaque, Middle: HRH on a tour of the Science Centre, Right: HRH delivering her speech
WALMER SCIENCE COLLEGE
The Princess Royal also visited Walmer Science College on 10 October, where she was greeted by local Civic dignitaries, and also met the staff and pupils while touring the facilities created for the new the Maritime Studies course which has recently been introduced. This allows students to learn to sail, navigate and learn about the maritime industry. They will gain a suite of RYA Level 2 qualifications, such as Sailing and Power Boating, Radio, Radar and Navigation Certificates and units 1 and 2 of the Maritime Qualifications Awards. They have the opportunity to go out on a lifeboat, a fishing boat, a pilot boat, a cross-channel ferry and a larger working vessel. Eventually they will also gain the Standards of Training, and Certification of Watchkeeping (STCW) safety certificates, which will allow them to take up a cadetship in the navy or a sea based apprenticeship. Her Royal Highness as President of the RYA was particularly interested to see the maritime education being taught in an area of Kent, where pupils can choose to take up a maritime occupation on leaving school.
Left: Lord Lieutenant presenting local dignitaries to HRH, Right: HRH with Mrs Scannell, Head of School.
