Prince Edward on Wednesday became the first official guest at the new Liverpool King David High School campus.

Visiting the existing premises, the prince asked to see the £26 million campus, which will become the centre of Jewish schooling and community life in Liverpool.

He penned the first signature to the visitors' book in the nearly finished main atrium, which is to be the centrepiece of the school building, which is due for completion in July.

Earlier in his visit, the prince was entertained by the school choir and met pupils who have been through the Duke of Edinburgh Award, of which he is a trustee.

As part of the qualifying physical activities, skills, expedition and volunteering, pupils helped out within the Jewish community.

Head girl and boy Rachel Friend and Adam Fineberg, both 18, discussed their plans for university with Prince Edward.

"I told him I was studying history, which he said was a good choice," Rachel said. "I didn't curtsey but he shook my hand and was very friendly."

Choir member Lauren Miller, 14, said she would be proud to "tell my kids and grandchildren that I sung for a prince". Mark Globe and Jordan Brookes talked to him about their DoE bronze activities.

Year 10 pupil Sophie Simon had contributed towards her award by spending three months volunteering for Merseyside Jewish Community Care. Victoria Miller had helped KD's kindergarten run after-school classes for children of working parents.

High school governors' chair Max Steinberg said: "What I'm hearing about our new campus is that it is being regarded as a jewel in the crown of Jewish and community facilities, not only in Liverpool but nationally. It shows because Prince Edward specifically requested to see the new building."

KD head Bridget Smith explained to the prince "that the whole experience of the campus is built around the Jewish values of the school with its synagogue in the centre".