Elstree Receives Royal Visit

The Duke of York has visited Elstree Studios for a tour of facilities and to meet with key sponsors and personnel involved with the new Elstree University Technical College, due to open in September 2013.
Prince Andrew is an advocate of the University Technical Colleges (UTC) initiative, which provides full time, technically-oriented courses of study to 14-18 year olds.
Elstree UTC will specialise in vocational education for Film, Television and the Creative Arts careers.
The Duke of York was given a tour of the Studios by Managing Director Roger Morris and Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, Morris Bright, visiting the set of Sky 1’s Yonderland, animatronic creators Lifecast and the BBC’s new multi-million pound gallery facilities in Studios 8 and 9.
Following the Studios tour Prince Andrew met with supporters of the new Elstree UTC including Principal Moira Green, the Vice Chancellor of Hertfordshire University, Dr Stephen Boffey and the Elstree UTC main sponsor David Meller.
The Duke of York then attended a roundtable meeting with the Elstree UTC team and Film and TV industry leaders from companies such as the BBC, Sony and Endemol.
Elstree Studios’ first talking picture was made at the Studios in 1929. It also hosted the original Star Wars & Indiana Jones trilogies.
Speaking during the visit His Royal Highness said he hopes more companies can be encouraged to become involved with UTCs as they will be an important source of skilled school leavers in the future.
www.elstreestudios.co.uk
(IT/CD)