Hampshire Flag - Students' skills fly high thanks to flag firm visit
Young people from a special needs school in Hampshire had the chance to learn more about the working environment and to see their own flag in production after visiting one of the country's leading flag manufacturers.
The group of 11 pupils from Oak Lodge School in Dibden Purlieu took part in a tour of the Hampshire Flag Company's manufacturing unit in Waterlooville, enabling the students to see skills, learnt about in school, applied in the workplace.
The young people also watched the production of an Oak Lodge school flag, which was designed by one of the Hampshire Flag team members. The flag will fly in the school grounds.
Bev Hawker, Headteacher at Oak Lodge, which has 140 pupils aged 11 to 16 said, "Visiting industry and businesses is a key part of our activities programme. The pupils thoroughly enjoyed their time at Hampshire Flag and were very excited to see their own flag being produced.
"It was a valuable insight into how a manufacturing firm operates. They were particularly impressed by the size of the machinery and acquired greater understanding of costs and income. The pupils also observed employees working co-operatively and using communication skills effectively," added Bev.
Hampshire Flag's team of 20, produces hand-sewn national and international flags and digitally printed banners. It also offers a bespoke flag design service, PVC banners, marine flags, bunting and table flags in addition to the supply and installation an extensive range of flagpoles.
Graham Wilkinson, the Waterlooville firm's Managing Director, said, "Opening our doors to students is a real privilege. It was fantastic to see their enthusiasm and desire to learn, and we hope that the young people from Oak Lodge have been inspired by their time spent at Hampshire Flag."
The multi-award winning firm's prestigious client portfolio includes the BBC, Channel 4, Portsmouth Football Club, IBM and British Airways. The firm provides on-going support for various charities and expeditions including the Homeless World Cup and swimmer and environmentalist Lewis Pugh's on-going feats. It also has a sales office in Dundee, Scotland.
For further information call 0845 644 3129 or visit www.hampshireflag.co.uk