Portland College hosted a special visit from the Duke of Edinburgh as part of his two-day tour of Nottinghamshire.

The royal visitor was meeting young people doing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).

To achieve a DofE Award, young people, aged 14 to 24, take part in activities in four sections — improving a physical activity, learning a new skill, volunteering for a cause of their choice; and completing a demanding expedition.

Along the way, participants have fun, grow in resilience and self-belief, discover new talents and passions, and learn practical skills to help them in the future.

The DofE Awards is a long-standing programme available to Portland learners, with many achieving bronze and/or silver awards each year.

The Duke of Edinburgh, who is patron of the DofE charity, met Portland learners and staff and watched a demonstration in the Woodland Adventure Zone of the skills the young people learn while tackling their awards.

He also saw how fully accessible the seven-metre climbing wall is, as a learner abseiled down the tower in a bespoke wheelchair.

Portland learner Alistair, who achieved his bronze award last year, said: “More people should be into DofE because it’s a great experience. You get to do things you wouldn’t be able to do. I would recommend it to anyone.”

The Duke also visited the college’s bespoke SMARTHome facility. This uses voice activation technology, such as Alexa, Google, and Bixby, to aid independence, communication, and wellbeing. Learners can control a wide range of devices, from lighting through to washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and fridges.

A plaque officially opening the Newstart Theatre and Sports Hall was unveiled by the royal visitor, who watched more Portland learners taking part in inclusive sporting activities, such as boccia.

To end his visit, the Duke enjoyed refreshments on offer from learners in the Portland Coffee Shop. Open to the public six days a week, the shop provides real-life work experience for learners on a hospitality and catering programme.

Portland Charity chairman Tim Richmond said: “We are privileged to have welcomed His Royal Highness to Portland College to see the positive impact the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has on our learners — and to showcase our outstanding facilities.

“This was a really special occasion for all involved and a great way for our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award learners to celebrate their achievements on the programme.”