His Majesty The King visited Apple’s UK headquarters in Battersea to celebrate innovation, education, and community partnership in Wandsworth…reports Asian Lite News
The highlight of the visit was a meeting with students from St George’s Primary School, who showcased their digital artwork created as part of Apple’s education programme. The collaboration between Apple and the council helps inspire creativity and equip young people with vital digital skills.
The students’ artwork was later projected onto Battersea Power Station’s iconic chimneys, adding a festive touch to the borough’s holiday celebrations. This projection, alongside Battersea Power Station’s renowned Christmas offerings – including a riverside ice rink, dazzling decorations, and a 40-foot Christmas tree – symbolised the creativity and potential of the borough’s young people.
Attendees were also treated to a surprise performance by chart-topping singer-songwriter Raye, who sang an array of Christmas classics to set the festive mood.
Lisa Jackson, Apple’s vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives praised the collaboration, stating, “Apple is honoured to support organisations devoted to giving opportunities to Wandsworth’s young people. Partnerships like this make Apple better. Wandsworth continues to be an exceptional place to grow and thrive.”
Councillor Kate Stock, Cabinet Member for Children at Wandsworth Council, emphasised the importance of this partnership, “His Majesty’s visit to Apple and his engagement with St George’s Primary School students showcases the inspiring collaborations we’re building in Wandsworth. Programmes like Apple’s digital skills initiative empower our young people with tools for the future while celebrating their creativity. Events like this highlight Wandsworth as a borough where opportunity and community spirit thrive.”
Sarah Collymore, Head Teacher at St George’s Primary School, expressed her pride in the students’ achievements, “We are incredibly proud of our students and their creativity. This experience has shown them the power of their imagination and the importance of developing digital skills. To see their artwork celebrated by His Majesty and projected onto such an iconic landmark is a memory they will cherish forever.”
His Majesty also toured Battersea Power Station’s festive attractions, including its riverside ice rink, the beautifully decorated 40-foot Christmas tree, and the bustling Winter Village. These activities, part of the Power Station’s Christmas celebrations, reflect the area’s transformation into a vibrant destination for both the local community and visitors from across London.
Waltham Forest to welcome Their Majesties
The King and Queen will attend a reception at Waltham Forest Town Hall, Fellowship Square, on Friday to celebrate the cohesion of the borough’s community following a peaceful anti-racism protest in August 2024, where thousands of Waltham Forest residents came together to demonstrate the true community spirit of the borough.
The Council worked alongside community partners to provide reassurance to local people in response to the disorder that took place in other places across the UK.
Waltham Forest is a welcoming, diverse and supportive community where there is no space for hate. We are proud to be an officially recognised Borough of Sanctuary, with a long tradition of welcoming, valuing and celebrating people seeking sanctuary.
The King and Queen will meet local community volunteers, youth representatives, emergency services, front line staff and local community and faith representatives who provide support, advice, and guidance to all, including refugees who are looking to build a new life for themselves.
The Little Choir of Joy, a children’s choir made up of 5- to 12-year-olds from across schools in the borough will perform festive songs during Their Majesties’ visit to the Town Hall.
Their Majesties will meet members of the public outside the Town Hall at Fellowship Square after the reception.
Residents wishing to welcome Their Majesties The King and Queen will be able to access a viewing area in Fellowship Square via the Farnan Avenue and Forest Road entrance next to Farnan Avenue only. The gates will open at 10am.
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