MP visits LSEC’s Nido Volans Lambeth to celebrate the Power of Specialist FE

Helen Hayes, MP for Dulwich and West Norwood and Chair of the Education Select Committee, visited London South East Colleges’ Nido Volans Lambeth campus yesterday as part of The Power of Specialist FE awareness week.

She was welcomed by Asfa Sohail, Deputy CEO and Executive Principal of London South East Colleges, and Perry Valchos, Director of the Lambeth campus’ specialist provision. The visit marked a year since Helen had officially opened the building, offering her an opportunity to see the progress being made in developing high-quality, specialist support for 16–24-year-olds with complex needs.

During the visit, Helen met students and staff, toured the College’s newly developed learning spaces, including a classroom, studio flat and wellbeing room. The visit highlighted the transformative role that specialist further education plays in supporting learners with SEND to build confidence, independence and employability skills.

London South East Colleges’ participation in The Power of Specialist FE campaign – a national initiative led by Natspec (the membership organisation for specialist colleges) – aims to raise the profile of specialist FE and ensure it is recognised as an essential part of the education system.

Helen Hayes MP said:

“It was fantastic to return to Nido Volans Lambeth today, to meet staff and students. Specialist FE provision is such an important part of our education system, enabling learners with SEND to gain independence, access progression pathways and lead fulfilling lives.

“I am very supportive of Natspec’s campaign and the work that staff are doing at colleges like LSEC to ensure young people with SEND are able to develop the skills they need to fulfil their potential.”

LSEC’s Deputy CEO and Executive Principal, Asfa Sohail, welcomed Helen and discussed some of the opportunities and challenges within the sector currently. She said:

“Specialist FE provides life-changing support for young people with a wide range of special needs, and we are proud to share the progress we are making here in Lambeth. We are delighted to welcome Helen here today, to showcase the impact that high-quality specialist provision is having on our learners’ confidence and long-term outcomes.

“However, this part of the sector continues to face significant pressures, particularly around funding. Natspec’s campaign is helping to raise awareness of both the successes and the challenges, and in securing the recognition and investment our learners deserve. We are grateful to Helen Hayes MP for her continued support and interest in the transformative work taking place here at Nido Volans Lambeth.”

London South East Colleges will continue to champion the campaign throughout this week, working with partners, policymakers and the community to ensure specialist FE receives the recognition it deserves.