Platform One Marks 25 Years Of Nurturing Island Music Talent

Platform One has celebrated 25 years of creative education with a special anniversary event bringing together students, staff, alumni and supporters from across the Isle of Wight.

The celebration took place at GG's Bar & Restaurant in Newport on Saturday 30th May and showcased the musical talent that has helped define the institution over the past quarter of a century.

The evening was organised by second-year BTEC students, who planned and delivered a programme of live performances featuring current students from across Platform One's courses.

Audiences enjoyed tribute band performances from first-year students, original music from second-year performers and a headline set from degree-level house band The Project.

As part of the event, students also organised a fundraising raffle aimed at supporting future generations of musicians studying at Platform One.

A range of prizes were donated by local businesses, with the top prize being a pair of VIP tickets to this year's Sky presents Isle of Wight Festival.

One of the highlights of the evening saw Platform One Director Peter Pontin presented with a commemorative silver vinyl record plaque by members of the lecturing team.

The award recognised the contribution made by Peter and co-founder David Pontin, who established Platform One in 2001 and have since helped thousands of young people develop careers and skills in the creative industries.

Reflecting on the anniversary celebrations, Peter said the event demonstrated both the professionalism and high standards achieved by students across Platform One's programmes, from its Saturday RockSchool sessions through to degree-level study.

He also paid tribute to the teaching team whose dedication helped make the event possible.

Organisers say the event received a strong response from attendees and not only celebrated Platform One's achievements over the past 25 years but also raised money to support future investment in student facilities and equipment.

With the anniversary celebrations now complete, attention turns to the Sky presents Isle of Wight Festival later this month, where the Platform One Stage will once again provide a platform for emerging local artists between 19th and 21st June at Seaclose Park.