Prince Harry was back to Nottingham yesterday – his sixth visit in the last four years – to be updated on some projects of the Royal Foundation, getting to hear some rap and see some acting from youngsters.
Prince Harry was visiting programmes supported by the Royal Foundation in Nottingham (@KensingtonRoyal)
Huge crowds greeted Harry as he arrived in the city, to learn more about the Coach Core and Full Effect programmes. Both schemes are supported by The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry – their charitable vehicle working in the areas of conservation, mental health and young people.
Thank you to @WeAreCoachCore, @wearefulleffect and the friendly people of Nottingham for the wonderful welcome for Prince Harry today! pic.twitter.com/OFDONpFnkQ
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 1, 2017
The Prince joined a music and a sports session at the Nottingham Academy to see how the Full Effect project is developing. The organisation aims to identify and support children and young people from becoming involved in youth violence and crime through a combination of early intervention, mentorship, and training.
William and Harry plan Diana statue for Kensington Palace
It was here that the 32-year-old had a go at dancing, later applauding young performers treating him to a rap masterclass.
One who performed for Harry was Newton, 11. He said: “It was a great feeling to be able to rap for the Prince. I don’t think many people get to fist-bump him so that was amazing.
“I think he thought my bars were sick – we are Gs (gangstas) for life now.”
Watching a kickboxing training session run by @WeAreFullEffect mentor Cain and Child Development Worker Chantelle ? pic.twitter.com/qEBRAeHL5V
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 1, 2017
Discussing the Full Effect programme – which works with youths in St Ann’s to deter them from becoming involved in violence and gangs – with mentor Cain Thomas, while 10 pupils sparred in a classroom. One youth worker said that Harry’s genuine interest and support ‘helps elevate them and inspire’ the children she works with.
It was then on to the Coach Core graduation ceremony for the Prince., with some youngsters he has met on previous visits.
Coach Core is an apprenticeship programme aimed at improving the availability and quality of sports coaching, whilst creating employment for young people. Similar to the Prince’s Trust – Prince Charles’ charity – the organisation, now in its fifth year, increases confidence and encourages young people to believe in themselves and what they can achieve. It appears to be on track to be in 10 cities across the UK this year.
Prince Harry to Nottingham @WeAreCoachCore graduates: “Don’t forget your roots” #CoachCore pic.twitter.com/28o9QRFpqw
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) February 1, 2017
Harry was treated to some ‘hip-hopera’ by graduates, and was also presented with ice-skates – but he admitted ‘Me and ice don’t go’.
Speaking at the ceremony held at Nottingham Council House, the Royal praised the scheme for ‘[inspiring] younger kids within the community, young people who in turn would inspire others through sport.
He added: “A huge, huge congratulations to you all…you’ve grabbed your second chance.”
The Trent Bridge Community Trust, Nottingham Rugby Club, the National Ice Centre, Epic Partners, Notts County FC Football in the Community and Nottingham Forest in the Community are among the established sports clubs and charities it works with.
