Skills Minister impressed with quality of training on visit to New City College construction campus

New City College’s Construction and Engineering Campus in Rainham was in the spotlight when it welcomed Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills, for a visit highlighting the vital role that further education colleges play in developing the UK’s workforce.

The Minister toured the college’s fantastic facilities, met with students, staff, apprentices and employers, and used the visit to make a national TV and press announcement that reaffirmed government investment in skills and technical education.

New City College was recently announced as the Construction Technical Excellence College (TEC) for Greater London so it was the perfect place for Baroness Smith to see for herself the remarkable work being carried out to try to address the UK’s construction skills shortage.

During her visit the Minister looked around the plumbing, carpentry, engineering and brickwork workshops, where she met with students and apprentices. She spoke directly with learners and electrical apprentices, asking about their courses and the practical, industry-ready skills they are developing to support their future careers. She even had a go at bricklaying herself!

Baroness Smith then met with employers to discuss the crucial role that further education colleges play in meeting skills shortages and supporting local and national economic growth. Following the tour, she re-confirmed the government’s funding and commitment to boosting capacity in colleges, ahead of an expected 67,000 additional 16- and 17-year-olds entering post-16 education by 2028.

She said:

“Learning a trade opens doors to a brilliant career and a secure future, and trade workers are crucial to our mission to turbocharge economic growth. We’re making sure every young person who wants to become a builder, engineer or technician can get that opportunity.”

She also announced that applications are now open for the next wave of TECs, focusing on advanced manufacturing, defence, digital and clean energy skills.

Colleen Marshall, Principal of New City College, New Road, Rainham, said:

“It was an honour to host Baroness Jacqui Smith and to show her around our incredible facilities at the Rainham campus. The Minister was very impressed and commented on the dedication and enthusiasm of our staff, as well as the high levels of engagement shown by our students and apprentices.

“We are incredibly proud of the work taking place across the college and the role that NCC plays in developing the skilled workforce of the future.”

New City College continues to work closely with government, employers and industry partners to ensure learners gain the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy.