Platform One marked its 25th anniversary with a special celebration at GG’s Bar and Restaurant in Newport on Saturday 30th May, bringing together students, parents, alumni, staff and supporters from across the Isle of Wight to celebrate a quarter-century of creative education.
Students take the lead
The event was planned and delivered by second-year BTEC students, who curated an evening of live music showcasing the talent and creativity of Platform One’s current student community. The programme featured Year 01 tribute band performances, original music from Year 02 students, and a closing set from degree-level house band, The Project.
Raffle raises funds for future musicians
As part of the celebrations, students organised a fundraising raffle to support future generations of musicians studying at Platform One. The raffle featured an array of prizes generously donated by local businesses, including Cafe Isola, Willy’s Guitar Shop, Wight Bakes, Love Coffee, RT Cafe and Grill, Waterstones, Little Bassett B&B, Honey Cottage, Snap Fitness, Ryde Superbowl, Corrie’s Cabin, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and On The Rocks.
The top prize was a pair of VIP tickets to this year’s Sky presents Isle of Wight Festival.
Silver vinyl for a founding vision
A highlight of the evening saw Platform One Director Peter Pontin presented with a commemorative silver vinyl record plaque by the lecturing team. The award recognised the vision and dedication of Peter and co-founder David Pontin, who established Platform One in 2001 and have since helped shape the creative journeys of thousands of students on the Isle of Wight.
Peter Pontin, Director of Platform One, says,
“Our 25th Anniversary celebration was a true testament to the professionalism of our students and the high performance standard they have all achieved, right the way up from our Saturday RockSchool club and through to our Post-16 diplomas and BA (Hons) degree programmes.
Of course, this hugely success event for Platform One would not have happened without the support and dedication of our specialist teaching team.”
The event received an overwhelmingly positive response from attendees and served as both a celebration of Platform One’s achievements and a fundraiser supporting future investment in equipment and facilities for students.
Platform One looks ahead to festival stage
With the anniversary celebrations complete, Platform One is now preparing for its return to the Sky presents Isle of Wight Festival, where its dedicated Platform One Stage will once again showcase emerging local talent from 19th–21st June at Seaclose Park.
For more information about Platform One and its courses, visit the website.
News shared by Jess on behalf of Platform One. Ed
