Students from the Watford UTC have been learning life and workplace skills through an unconventional and unexpected route.

They spent an afternoon at The Grove Hotel in Chandler’s Cross with Woodland Hawking, flying some of their spectacular Birds of Prey.

The Grove Hotel is one of the Watford UTC’s employer partners and the students work with the team there on a variety of work-related projects.

Grant Fear, of Woodland Hawking, and resident falconer at the hotel, made a presentation about birds of pey to Watford UTC students last year and students who wanted to gain closer contact with the birds were asked to register their interest in a follow-up event.

Eight students were then chosen to joint Grant on a woodland walk flying his birds.

He said: “Following a short instruction on how to handle the birds, the students went into the woodland and witnessed the hawks following them through the trees and returning to their gloves.

“It was really rewarding watching the students’ reaction to the sheer speed and grace of these birds. I’m sure the experience has stimulated their imagination.”

Emma Loveland, Principal of the Watford UTC, said: “They had a fantastic time. It was a challenging experience for them, teaching important skills like patience, trust and risk-taking. These students approach their learning in such a positive way they truly deserve this unique experience.”

The UTC has a series of open events planned for students wishing to find out more about the college. For more information, visit www.watfordutc.org.