A Visit from the Future King of England

Well even the Rain could not ruin the day.

It is not everyday you get a visit from the future King of England

On Wednesday 4th June 2014 Prince William came to visit Goole High School where I happen to be a Director so was therefore able to share in this momentous occasion.

He was originally due to arrive by helicopter but the heavy rain put paid to these plans and after a short delay he was landed elsewhere and arrived at the school by Range Rover.

He got out of the car where despite the downpour all the children were out in force to meet him.  He did not hurry inside to shelter but made a beeline straight to the kids to talk to them.

He took his time walking along the line and chatting with the kids who were over the moon. Despite being told not to two cheeky chaps posed for a quick ‘Selfie’ and unwittingly they could not have timed it better as he spotted what they were up to caught them out.

Great shot guys!!!

He was at the school to launch a new Junior Skill Force program which has been developed with the help of Goole High School in conjunction with several local Primary schools. It builds children’s confidence, resilience, teamwork and problem solving abilities aimed at giving young people the skills they need to cope better when they go to Secondary school so that they get the most out of their education, something we as a school are very passionate about.

He enjoyed a demonstration from the Skills force kids as they did a mock up of crossing an area of ground with land mines, having to work together as a team to complete the task.

He then took time despite being on a tight schedule to talk to the two teams of Skills Force Kids surprising onlookers by getting down on their level and talking to them for some time.

He was treated to a performance from the School Samba Band and then he took the time to chat to some of the band members where he was asked what music he liked to listen to. ‘Cold Play and Linkin Park’ was the reply to the surprise and delight of the kids.

He also spoke to several students in the school congratulating them on their results so far and finding out more about what the school has to offer its students.  He was very impressed by how articulate the students were and how enthusiastic and passionate they were about the school.

Finally he unveiled a plaque to commemorate the launching of the Junior Skill Force award on this his very first visit to the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Even the weather decided to be kind as a break in the weather allowed his helicopter to land  on the school field for his departure.

He did however once again take time to talk to the students there to wave him off walking along and chatting to them for several minutes before he had to go.

Did I get a photograph with the prince unfortunately not but I am at the front watching the proceedings.  That is me in Red in the middle at the back.

It was a fantastic day for the School and the whole town. Everyone was buzzing on a real high.  A real memory for the kids to cherish

Everyone who spoke to him said the same thing. He as charming, friendly and absolutely devoted to the kids, so much like his Mum in that respect.

A Fantastic day was had by all especially the Cheeky Boys!!!

Here is William laughing with them after the shot!

But all good things come to an end and soon it was time for him to go up, up and away!

Oh well back to reality. It was great while it lasted.