Prince William has congratulated the first primary schoolchildren in Birmingham to complete a new award scheme in his name. The Duke of Cambridge spoke with 14 pupils from Cofton Primary School who took part in the SkillForce Junior Prince’s Award, which aims to develop character, resilience, confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Debbie Dudt, headteacher of Cofton, says: “Our pupils are thrilled to have met the Duke. It was an experience that they will never forget.” The award scheme, run by the national education charity SkillForce, comprises 40 hours of activities that include teamwork challenges and community projects. The activities are delivered by predominantly ex-Services personnel and receive funding from the Standard Life Charitable Trust.