The Earl of Wessex visits Medway Secure Training Centre (STC)
29-02-2008
Medway Secure Training Centre was delighted to host a visit by His Royal Highness Prince Edward the Earl of Wessex in connection with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
Ben Saunders, director Medway STC said: “We were honoured to welcome HRH Prince Edward to meet the young people and staff involved with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards programme”.
The Prince was introduced to twenty young people who have committed their time and energy to achieving Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards during their time in custody at the STC.
Ben Saunders continued: “During the tour of the facilities at Medway STC HRH Prince Edward spoke with young people in their living accommodation who were taking part in full time education work and those using computers to assist with learning.
At Medway STC the focus is on a culture which aims to develop young people for a future life away from crime by giving the young people valuable skills, knowledge and the enthusiasm to contribute and thrive in society as law abiding citizens.
Ben Saunders went onto say “A priority for Rebound at Medway STC is to equip these young people for life in the community by getting them back into full time education and often by improving their confidence and practical skills together with a greater understanding of social responsibilities. In our community printing project area a young girl produced a personalised ceramic mug for the Prince bearing his coat of arms, which she then presented as a gift.
Another young person who has already achieved the Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver award spoke about her role in producing the Lockdown magazine, which is edited at Medway STC and distributed nationally to all other secure training centres, secure children’s homes and young offender institutions.