HRH The Duke of York visited the Caterham Cars Schools’ Project during a visit to the Swale Skills Centre in Kent.
The project was created by the Rotary Club of Sittingbourne Invicta in 2011 to train young people in practical and life skills. This year, students from Sittingbourne Community College and the charity Catch 22, will build a completely new Caterham car from a kit received direct from the factory.
The aim is for the training to provide not only practical skills but experience of scenarios the students are likely to encounter when they leave college and go out into the outside world. They sign a contract committing to the project and work in teams which are structured to develop team working and communication skills.
The Duke of York unveiled a plaque to commemorate his visit and made a point of expressing his support for apprenticeships. HRH was visiting the centre as part of his work to recognise efforts made to prepare young people for life through skills training and apprenticeships.
David Wilkinson, President of the Rotary Club of Sittingbourne Invicta said: ‘’We are proud to have initiated and funded this project for young people in our community. It provides benefits and opportunities for local young people and the Swale Skills Centre provides a wonderful facility with dedicated tutors to guide them. We are delighted that HRH The Duke of York has taken an interest and hope he enjoyed his visit.’’
Brent van der Merwe, Manager of the Swale Skills Centre commented: ‘’One of our main aims is to prepare young people for access to work through apprenticeships. The Caterham Schools’ Cars Project is a headline project in this area. As a direct result of last year’s project, one of the students has started work with a local employer."
Gordon Henderson MP, who was also in attendance said: “I was very impressed with both the car and the enthusiasm of the youngsters. Well done to the Rotary Club of Sittingbourne Invicta for this fantastic initiative.”
The Rotary Club of Sittingbourne Invicta Caterham Schools’ Project continues to be one of the club’s most popular projects and a third car has just been ordered for the new academic year in September.
