On Thursday 27 September Mayor of Maidstone Councillor David Naghi visited staff and students at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus on the Oakwood Park site, Tonbridge Road.
The Mayor was pleased to share the experience he has gained over 40 years as a self-employed builder, as he enjoyed a tour of the College’s industry-standard workshops.
During the tour, the Mayor visited Brickwork, Carpentry, Painting and Decorating, Plumbing, Electrical and Motor Vehicle workshops.
Of particular interest were students enrolled on a new ‘multi-trades’ qualification who are learning building and construction skills in a range of different craft areas to meet local skills needs, and an enhanced Motor Vehicle workshop following significant refurbishment and investment over the summer.
The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr David Naghi, said: “I am very pleased that students are able to access such a high standard of hands-on training within Maidstone. The environment and purpose-built trade workshops in which they learn are excellent - geared specifically to providing the best grounding in a wide variety of trades.
“It is vital that these skills are taught well, keeping abreast of advancing technology and bearing in mind the fast-paced world in which we live and work today.
“With over 40 years experience as a professional tradesperson, I know the value of solid training - which in turn leads to a variety of good work opportunities and useable skills for life!”
Simon Cook, College Principal said “We are incredibly proud to be at the heart of the community here in Maidstone and to be working with local partners including the Council, schools, and businesses to ensure that we are developing the right skills and knowledge to support our local economy.
We’re grateful to the Mayor for sharing his time and experience with our staff and students, and look forward to developing some of the ideas we discussed together that will benefit our community”.
