PUPILS posed questions to the Duke of Cambridge and grabbed selfies with comedian and children’s author David Walliams after taking part in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

Children from Bodnant Community School, Prestatyn attended the inaugural SkillForce Prince William Award Graduation Ceremony, held at Birmingham University.

The ceremony, which marked the successful first year of the Prince William Award, was hosted by Britain’s Got Talent judge and former Little Britain and Come Fly With Me star Walliams. He spent time talking to the children and posed for selfies.

Bodnant Community School was one of the few schools selected to take part in the event. The school has been running the 36-week programme for two years, which helps young people build character, resilience and confidence.

Headteacher Helen Vernon said: “When Prince William sat at our table, all four faces were a picture they were in awe.

“All the preparation, as to what we were going to say, just left their minds.

“It seems the the Prince may be aware of the impact as it was him who initiated the conversation and then the children were fine.

“Myself and teaching assistant Tracey Nevitt attended, along with children Leon Hughes, Ben Hoban, Brooke Pearce and Madison Burton.

“Throughout the programme, all showed a great attitude, dedication and commitment.

“The pupils were very excited as our school had been selected for the Duke of Cambridge to speak to. The children were eager to tell the Duke what they had gained from the programme.”

The programme, delivered by charity SkillForce, is taught by predominantly former armed forces personnel, through a range of practical and classroom based activities.

Mrs Vernon added: “It was Leon who spoke to the Prince William.

“He told him that the programme has improved his confidence and that when he goes to high school, he will be able to make friends easier. “

Leon said: “I was actually shocked when I knew that he was going to be there but when I met him I felt ok and got a selfie.

Madison added: “I wasn’t as anxious meeting David Walliams because I read his books. I got a selfie with him but I was a bit nervous.”

Walliams provided the comedy element of the ceremony. He joked to crowds: “For those of you who don’t know me – I’m sort of Britain’s answer to Angelina Jolie: a hugely respected actor who is renowned for their humanitarian work and also very easy on the eye.”

Mrs Vernon said: “We were thrilled and honoured to have been chosen to attend the graduation ceremony where our children represented the 30 children that have completed this award and the 30 who are now taking part this year.

“Our four children were truly wonderful ambassadors of Bodnant Community School.

“David Walliams – coming to speak to the children, having a group photos and selfies – that made a wonderful memory for the children.”

As part of the special graduation, the Duke made a speech in which he said he was proud to be the charity’s Royal patron.