ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø Welcomes West London MPs

ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø has been privileged to host several Members of Parliament recently, showcasing the transformative work taking place across our colleges. Following the UK General Election in July, we have welcomed both re-elected and newly-elected MPs to see first-hand how our colleges are driving innovation in education and positively impacting the communities we serve.

James Murray, MP for Ealing North, visited Ealing Green College and experienced our state-of-the-art immersive classroom, where he joined a live session connecting students with a class over at Hammersmith and Fulham College. The visit demonstrated the power of technology in fostering collaboration and enhancing learning. James also spent time with our ESOL students, engaging in a lively discussion and answering their questions on important issues such as crime, the NHS, and homelessness in the area. His visit highlighted the value of providing students with opportunities to discuss real-world challenges directly with their elected representatives.

Deirdre Costigan, our new MP for Ealing Southall, toured Southall Community College. Deirdre explored our state-of-the-art Construction and Green Skills Centre and motor vehicle workshops, key facilities in training students for careers in sustainable industries. Reflecting on her visit, Deirdre said: “FE is at the heart of addressing the green skills shortage, and the training provided at Southall Community College will play a major role in the UK’s green transition.�

We also welcomed back Dr. Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing Central and Acton, to Ealing Green College. In addition to seeing our brand new immersive classroom, Dr. Huq met many of our students across a variety of subject areas – from science to art and design to creative media. Dr. Huq, who last visited us in February, said: “FE Colleges such as ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø are the backbone of our local communities supporting education, skills training and local businesses.”

Hammersmith & Fulham College was also pleased to welcome back Andy Slaughter, MP for Hammersmith and Chiswick. Andy observed a guest lecture in one of two immersive classrooms that have opened since his last visit, showcasing how we are connecting students with the wider global community. He also visited our relaunched TASTE Restaurant and met Hospitality and Catering students perfecting their culinary skills in the kitchens.

We also had the honour of hosting Ben Coleman, MP for Chelsea and Fulham, at Hammersmith and Fulham College. Ben is the first Labour MP to represent the constituency, following his election in July 2024. Ben joined us for the official TASTE Restaurant relaunch event, as well as meeting T Level Digital and Access to Computing students, gaining insight into how our programmes equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to progress to university as well as succeed in high-demand industries.

The visits have provided a great opportunity for ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø to showcase the exceptional work taking place across our colleges, from the achievements of our students and staff to the innovative approaches we’ve embraced and embedded in our curriculum. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with these leaders, highlighting the vital social value of colleges and Further Education in empowering communities, driving social mobility, and supporting the economy.