Ed Miliband visits students and staff at Crawley College

On Friday, January 20, the college hosted a visit from Mr Miliband MP. This was a part of several stops made by the former Labour leader during his visit to the town.

He spent time discussing climate issues, renewable energies as well as the students’ own perception of politics and finding out what matters to them.

Student President for Crawley College, James Pinnock-Johnson and Vice President, Sophie Beeden were among 16 students who shared their views, concerns and raised the issues that matter to them.

Sophie said: “Meeting Ed showed us that he is so dedicated to being an MP and he was inspiring in telling us to follow our passions to achieve our dreams.

“We spoke about current issues, including the climate crisis. When I brought up current issues that people with hidden disabilities are facing, he carefully listened and was really interested in my journey at Crawley College and the support I have received here.”

Principal of Crawley College, Sally Challis-Manning MBE said: “It’s important for our students to have opportunities to meet politicians and connect with politics at all levels, so we were delighted to welcome Mr Miliband and his team to the college on Friday.

“He was particularly interested in hearing what our students had to say, especially around climate change, renewable technologies.

“The students came from across a range of our courses, from engineering to public services, and I was proud to see them taking the opportunity to talk about the issues that matter to them.

“It was particularly notable to see how the story of one of our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students, who fled Afghanistan with her family, resonated with Mr Miliband who spoke about his parents’ own journeys to Britain.

“I was immensely proud and inspired by how our students didn’t shy away from expressing their thoughts and concerns.”

Whatever you want to achieve, Crawley College is here to support you on your journey to success. It offers technical and professional courses for young people and adults in a wide variety of subject areas, taught by highly experienced curriculum staff.