STUDENTS took time out from classes to speak to a royal visitor.

Pupils at Thomas Tallis School, Kidbrooke Park Road, Kidbrooke, welcomed HRH the Duke of Kent into their classroom.

The Duke visited the school to find out more about its role in the Skill Force programme, which allows pupils to learn new skills.

Students taking part in Skill Force can achieve qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and St John Ambulance certificates.

The Duke, who is the Queen's cousin, chatted to pupils about the programme.

He was then given a guided tour of the school.

Tomas Tallis' headteacher Rob Thomas said: "The Duke was so impressed he asked us if he can return next year to see how the students have progressed."

Skill Force is a national initiative funded by the Department for Education and Skills, which aims to increase educational opportunities for 14 to 16-year-olds.