Brine Leas pupils in Nantwich were given a Royal seal of approval for their efforts in the Duke of York’s iDEA scheme.
For the Duke himself flew in to the Audlem Road school to present bronze certificates to around 50 students completing the Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award.
The programme is designed as the digital and enterprise equivalent of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Students take part in a series of challenges to win awards, and for every new skill and learning experience mastered, iDEA learners are awarded a digital badge.
The focus is to help young people learn how to make, create, build and shine in a digital world.
The Duke arrived by helicopter met by David Briggs (Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire), headteacher Andrew Cliffe, head of business information technology and economics, Jess Bavin, and head of ICT Andrea Sanders.
His Royal Highness greeted the families of pupils receiving awards along with the governors and trustees of Brine Leas.
He followed this with a short address, stressing the importance of all students preparing themselves for the digital exposure that they will get in the world of employment.
The Duke added: “Be guided by your teachers, be guided by your parents but learn to learn yourselves.”
High Sheriff of Cheshire Mrs Alexis Redmond, outgoing Mayor of Cheshire East Cllr Arthur Moran, outgoing Mayor of Nantwich Cllr Penny Butterill, and Acting Chief Executive for Cheshire East Kath O’Dwyer also attended.
Jess Bavin said: “The department immediately recognised the value of iDEA.
“It is unlike anything out there for our students, it develops all aspects of their digital skills and awareness which is crucial in today’s society.”
Mr Cliffe added: “The visit by His Royal Highness, the Duke of York KG was a great success.
“I am sure we will continue with the iDEA award scheme given the manner and relish in which our students have approached it.
“The Silver Award will be launched next month and we hope students will embrace that as well.”
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