Children and Families Minister Visits West London College

On Thursday 31 January 2019 the Inclusive Learning Department at West London College received a visit from Children and Families Minister, Nadhim Zahawi MP.

Charles Nelson, Director of Inclusive Learning, welcomed Mr Zahawi and shared an overview of the Inclusive Learning Department strategic vision and its operations across the college. He said: “At West London College we offer a holistic specialist provision for young people with special educational needs and disabilities and consistently work in building strong employer links with local businesses, to enhance the opportunities available for our learners. It has been a great opportunity to meet with Minister Zahawi and share the amazing work and expertise of the inclusive learning department in supporting young people with SEND to prepare them for the real world of work.“

During his visit, Mr Zahawi learnt about the support available to SEND students across the college and the important role this specialist provision plays in helping prepare young people with learning difficulties for employment. He was also introduced to students from the supported internships and pathways to employment courses who discussed how participating in these programmes has improved their skills and built on their self-confidence and independence.

Mr Zahawi commented: “It’s a privilege to be here today meeting students and staff and learning about the outstanding provision for children with learning difficulties. It is inspiring to see young people enjoying college and achieving their potential.”

Susan Jenkins, Head of Inclusive Learning at Hammersmith & Fulham College, said: “It was inspiring for our learners to meet the Minister today and it was great to receive feedback on the work we are doing in the Inclusive Learning Department at West London College.”

The visit ended with a tour of the Inclusive Learning Department guided by Abdul, one of our most enthusiastic Inclusive Learning students. 

The visit was in keeping with the Minister’s message to support children with special educational needs to get the skills they need to fulfil their potential and achieve well in their education, find employment and live a happy, fulfilled life.