The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit Shortwood Teachers’ College

On arrival Their Royal Highnesses were met by the College Principal, Dr Claudette Barrett-March, and accompanied to the John F. Kennedy Library where they joined a discussion around early years development in Jamaica and the College’s research faculty.

After having the opportunity to meet with students and parents, The Duchess then addressed an assembly of students, staff and government officials. In her speech she touched on the important role played by Shortwood and the wider impact of early childhood development on our individual futures and our society as a whole:

“The foresight Shortwood had to establish this Early Childhood Education programme was recognition that the early years is fundamental to a child’s journey through life, and that looking at early childhood holistically, with strategic investment and a well-trained professional workforce, is critical in helping to raise our children today.  

Decades of science and research have shown us that our earliest experiences establish the fundamental foundations that shape and connect our future lives. 

It is when we learn how to form relationships, how to love, how to manage our feelings and emotions. It is when we develop our sense of identity, belonging and worthiness.  And it is when we shape our values and understanding of the world. 

So, we are doing something much more than just building healthy children. We are nurturing the people they will become, the families they will build and the communities they will be part of.”