News
The Duchess opens a newly-merged school near Highgrove in Gloucestershire
30th November 2009
The Duchess of Cornwall was in the Christmas spirit today as she opened a newly-merged school near her Highgrove home.
Her Royal Highness spent time with children in art and music lessons at Rose Hill Westonbirt Preparatory School in Tetbury, Gloucestershire.
She toured the school and spoke with pupils about their work before being treated to a performance by the choir.
The new school has been created from the union of two Gloucestershire preparatory schools, Querns Westonbirt and Rose Hill, and is a private independent co-educational day school for boys and girls aged three to 13.
The school, just a few minutes from Highgrove, currently has over 120 pupils.
The Duchess said she was impressed with the hard work and told children that they should make sure to write their letters to Father Christmas.
In a nursery class where children were making Christmas cards, three-year-old Anne MacMillan told the Duchess that she had asked Father Christmas for a Shetland pony.
Head girl Grace Grundy, aged 12, greeted The Duchess along with pupils waving Union Jack flags.
Grace said: "She was really friendly and down-to-earth, we chatted about the school and about the art scholarship I am going for.
"It is amazing to have the honour to meet her, everyone has been really excited."
After unveiling a plaque commemorating the official opening of the school, The Duchess said: "Congratulations on this incredibly successful merger, its been a pleasure to be here and I hope you have a happy Christmas."
She also met staff, governors and Head Teacher, Neil Shaw, and Westonbirt School's Head Teacher, Mary Henderson.
Mr Shaw said: "Today has been a great experience and the children have loved every minute.
"It is a great honour and a way of thanking all the staff and children for their hard work and support, particularly during the merger.
"The Duchess is part of our community, she lives just across the road, so its great to have that support and she knows the school well."