In celebration of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne, a number of special events are being held in Harrow, including Stanmore College.
The college wanted to provide an opportunity for students and staff to celebrate this major occasion and, as the Summer half-term break is week commencing 30 May, it was decided to hold a special garden party before the half term break.
College’s Principal, Sarbdip, planted a tree in a large pot in line with ‘The Queen’s Green Canopy’ which is an initiative whereby a network of individual trees, avenues, copses and whole woodlands are being planted nationwide in honour of The Queen’s service and legacy.
The idea is to create a green legacy with every tree planted bringing benefits to the climate, wildlife, society for the future, say the College.
Whilst being aware that Her Majesty’s favourite tree is a Verdon Oak, an Acer Platanoides Drummondii boasting green lobed leaves with a cream variegated margin was chosen for Stanmore College, and it was planted in a large pot due to planned building works.
At the Garden Party, light refreshments, cakes and snacks were provided for all who wished to attend, these included both students and staff, during their lunch period, all free of charge of course.
The students were really pleased and said they liked the wide range of cakes and drinks, the background music contributing to the bubbly atmosphere, and the friendliness of all present.
Deputy Principal, Bob Pattni, joined the Admissions staff in welcoming and offering refreshments and bites to everyone there.
There was even an opportunity to have a photograph taken with Her Majesty The Queen – albeit a life-size replica!
Many attendees wore traditional clothing in celebration of the Jubilee, the Commonwealth and their respective countries and laughter and smiles abounded as they patiently awaited their turns to have photographs taken with ‘Her Royal Highness’.
In return for the opportunities to have photographs taken alongside the college’s replica, there was an opportunity to give donations towards charity for those who wished to do so. Of course, no individual was denied the opportunity regardless.
Hima Shah, Job Centre Coach, who is based at the on-site Youth Hub commented: ”I just wanted to say that it was wonderful to see many students and staff who had taken part in Platinum Jubilee Celebrations here at Stanmore College.
“The atmosphere was lively and everyone was eager to get a photo with her Majesty. Despite the weather, the majority of the students and staff attended this event and loved the theme of vibrant colours – red, blue & white to represent Royalty.
“Also, it was nice to see them planting a tree to honour Her Majesty’s Jubilee. Thanks to those who were involved in making this event possible and success and it also managed to get people to unite. It is nice to see the organisation making an effort to mark this special occasion and it gets the community together”’
Deepa Artani, Director of Student Services said: “We at Student Services had a great time dressing up in traditional clothes and getting our pictures taken with the Queen (cut-out). It was a great opportunity to come together as Stanmore College community and celebrate British Values in a true sense.”
Liza Ayoub, Health and Social Care student, said: “Everyone was joyful, and it was a positive vibe, there were lots of staff members that I have never seen before, everyone was really happy”.
Shelley Thomas, Student Services Administrator, commented: “I personally thought that it was a lovely social gathering, lovely cakes and the cut-out of the Queen was a great talking point. It feels like a long time since we had a gathering, so was a positive event.”
Deborah Parkes, Lecturer in English, reported: “My students had not known what the event was about. As such this was a great way to inform our students who were still unaware despite information displayed and referred to of a little bit of positive history in the making.”
Source: Stanmore College
