Planting of oak is a 'fitting way' to mark the special day King Charles paid a visit to Harrogate school
“There was a tremendous sense of pride among the staff and pupils involved in the visit to the school by King Charles”
A Harrogate school has unveiled an oak tree presented by King Charles during his visit earlier this year - the first time a reigning monarch has visited the school.
Members of the school community who had met, or performed for, the King at Duchy College in May were present at the ceremony as the oak tree was planted.
It was one of only just 80 nationwide being presented by King Charles ahead of his 80th birthday in November 2028.
Principal, Joanna Fox, said: “There was a tremendous sense of pride among the staff and pupils involved in His Majesty’s visit.
“The visit came at a particularly significant time in our school’s history, as we were embarking upon an exciting new chapter for Duchy College.
“The tree also carries a wonderful sense of history and symbolism, having been planted in the first year of what was formerly Harrogate Ladies College.”
Duchy College, Harrogate, has a rich heritage dating back to 1893, when it was founded as Harrogate College, before later becoming Harrogate Ladies’ College.
Originally established as a boys’ school, it later became a pioneering girls’ school before expanding to provide co-educational education from Pre-School through to Prep.
During his visit in May, King Charles discussed balancing A Level studies with extra-curricular activities with prefects, before remarking on the beauty of the school’s setting, admitting he had not quite understood the school’s outstanding location within Harrogate.
The College Chapel Choir sang With A Voice of Singing and the Sevenfold Amen for the King, while Year 6 pupils performed songs from their production of Looking Good, Robin Hood, which King Charles “thoroughly enjoyed”.
Alastair Martin CVO, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Council at the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “The planting of this oak is a fitting way to mark what was a very special day for Duchy College earlier this year.
“As the school begins an exciting new chapter, we hope the tree will grow alongside the school and provide a lasting reminder of His Majesty’s visit for generations to come.”