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The Duchess of Edinburgh visits Christ Church and University of Kent

The Duchess of Edinburgh spent the day in Kent earlier this week, where she paid visits to Brockhill Park Performing Arts College, Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent and Medway Medical School, and the Kent Refugee Action Network.

Sophie Wessex is no stranger to Kent of course, growing up in the village of Brenchley

Her Royal Highness officially opened the Verena Holmes STEM Building at Canterbury Christ Church University.

The new structure is named after Verena Holmes, a Kent native who arguably was the first female in the UK to have a full-time career as a professional mechanical engineer.

 

The Duchess was given the opportunity to explore the new facility, which offers students with a fresh, high-tech learning environment.

 

There was also the chance to visit the beautiful ‘Tree of Trees’ dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II.

 

 

Her Royal Highness then unveiled the Kent and Medway Medical School and the Pears Building.

 

Kent and Medway Medical School, which is jointly operated by the University of Kent and Canterbury Christchurch University, will accept the first class of medical students in September of 2023.

 

The Duchess ended the day at Kent Refugee Action Network (KRAN), where she celebrated the charity’s 20th anniversary.

 

KRAN, which was founded in 2003, provides assistance to refugees and asylum seekers in Kent.

During her visit, Her Royal Highness learned more about KRAN’s activities and attended a Learning for Life Class, where she met kids who are currently aided by the organisation.