Coastland College was proud to play a part in the recent visit of Their Majesties The King and Queen to Dorset, joining organisations from across the county to celebrate the power of community, heritage and education.
The Royal visit began at Hall & Woodhouse’s Badger Brewery in Blandford St Mary, where Their Majesties marked the start of the independent brewer’s 250th anniversary celebrations before travelling into Blandford Forum.
At the Corn Exchange, The King and Queen met representatives from charities, voluntary organisations and community groups from across Dorset, reflecting The King’s Foundation’s concept of Harmony. They viewed displays showcasing the county’s work in areas including veterans’ support, domestic abuse services, faith, heritage, education and the arts, before greeting members of the public and visiting local farmers’ market stalls in the town centre.
Among those invited to represent Dorset’s education sector were Coastland College Principal and CEO Kate Wills, Deputy Principal Tom Hallam, Animal Experience & Welfare Manager Sarah Hassall, and one of the College’s best-known ambassadors, Ruby the Barn Owl.
The College showcased how it is inspiring the next generation through nature, conservation and animal welfare, giving students practical, hands-on experiences that develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to make a positive impact in their communities and future careers. This reflects Coastland College’s purpose of preparing students and apprentices to become future-ready through strong partnerships with industry and the local community.
“It was a real privilege to meet Their Majesties and to represent Coastland College alongside so many inspiring organisations from across Dorset.
“The Heritage & Harmony celebration highlighted the incredible work taking place across our county, and we were proud to showcase how education, the natural environment and community partnerships come together at Coastland College to create meaningful opportunities for our students. It was a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the important role further education plays in helping young people develop the skills and confidence to shape the future.”
Student impresses royals on bagpipes
The occasion was made even more memorable by the success of Coastland College student Fred Sills, who was invited to perform for The King and Queen during their visit.
Fred, who has recently completed his A Levels at Coastland College, played the bagpipes as Their Majesties arrived in Blandford Forum after being invited by the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley.
The invitation came after Fred impressed the Lord-Lieutenant with his performance at the Heritage & Harmony event held earlier this year at the College’s Kingston Maurward Campus.
Despite the exceptionally warm weather and the significance of the occasion, Fred delivered a memorable performance before later having the opportunity to meet The King and Queen alongside Coastland College staff.
Kate added:
“We are incredibly proud of Fred. To be invited to perform for Their Majesties is an extraordinary honour and a wonderful recognition of his talent and dedication. Seeing both our staff and one of our students representing Coastland College at such a prestigious occasion made it an incredibly special day for everyone involved.”
Following the visit, Kate spoke to BBC Radio Solent about meeting Their Majesties and Coastland College’s involvement in the Heritage & Harmony celebration, highlighting the College’s commitment to connecting education with the local community and creating opportunities that inspire students to achieve their potential.
You can listen to the interview here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002yllyv about 1 hour, 15 minutes into the programme.
