Andy Slaughter Knocks on Wood

MP meets prizewinning student from Acton College

Andrew Slaughter, Labour MP for Ealing, Acton and Shepherd's Bush visited Acton & West London College this week, and met students and staff from a variety of departments, including a carpentry student who is currently enjoying massive success in his trade.

Neil McCartney, an apprentice with Haymills Contractors Ltd., is one of six students from the College who recently competed in the London regional finals of the Skillbuild competition, and successfully defended his title in the bench joinery section. He will now go on to compete in the national finals in October.

Mr Slaughter was on a whistle-stop tour of the College which was recently awarded Beacon status thanks to its “innovation and excellence” by the Government’s Quality Improvement Agency. He was given a guided tour of the Construction department which is now a Centre of Vocational Excellence in Construction Crafts and met with ESOL tutors to discuss the current funding crisis.

Speaking about his visit, Mr Slaughter said ”I was hugely impressed by what is going on at Acton & West London College.   The commitment of the staff and students is matched by the facilities on site. I met people who are getting excellent results in craft, language and business skills and a totally focused and motivating professional staff.  The integration of vocational training from age 14 and the links with West London businesses, which include some of the biggest names anywhere in the world, is impressive.  Acton & West London College is not only the biggest but the best in London at delivering further education.”

Acton & West London College is part of Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College which has sites in Acton, Ealing, Hammersmith and Southall. It is currently deemed to be the best further education college in west London and was deemed to have 94 out of 100 areas “good” or “outstanding” by the Government’s OFSTED/ALI inspectorate. The college has strong employer and community links and offers vocational and academic courses including Construction, Engineering, Hair & Beauty, Hospitality and Catering, IT and Business.

June 7, 2007