During his visit, The Prince spoke to a group of Year 6 pupils from Ark White City Primary and WEST's Young People's Development Group, who were involved in shaping the design and facilities of the new centre. The Prince also participated in several activities, including basketball and biscuit decorating.
The Executive Principal, Daniel Upfield, said, "The Prince of Wales was so generous with his time during the visit. The highlight for many of our children was The Prince shaking their hands, asking their names and a little about them and their lives. There was lively debate about football and important messages about spending too much time on phones and social media. The children of White City will get so much out of WEST – a safe space where they can be themselves and try out new and exciting activities. We are incredibly fortunate to be sharing the EdCity site with WEST and look forward to working in partnership for the benefit of the young people of White City."
The Head of School, Sophie Vellacott, said, "Meeting the Prince of Wales was such a memorable moment for our children. Our pupils from Ark White City cannot wait for WEST to officially open so they can access the brilliant facilities after school and foster a lifelong relationship with the team and the wider community."
Khayalethu said, "Meeting The Prince was something I will remember for the rest of my life. I had the opportunity to ask him questions, and he answered them all. He touched me on the shoulder! I'm looking forward to joining WEST."
Bella-Ann, who has researched The Royal Family and learned many facts, says, "When we saw The Prince, we all screamed with excitement and waved out the window. Then he iced biscuits with us—it was a great day."
The Youth Zone is part of the exciting EdCity development—a £150m not-for-profit partnership between Ark and Hammersmith & Fulham Council, and is being delivered by Bowmer + Kirkland Ltd. In addition to a permanent home for Ark and Ark White City Primary, it will provide a nursery, adult education facilities, and 132 new affordable homes.
