The event themed ‘Colleges - Delivering a Stronger Economy and a Fairer Society’ was hosted by MSP James Dornan at the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh on Tuesday 27 September.

Representing WCS were staff and students from both the Engineering and Interior Architecture departments.  

Illustrating how they are making effective use of the Sunamp energy storage systems and smart heating controls were the Engineering students from the Colleges Greenock campus.

Nineteen year old Blair Martin, a 1st Year Apprentice Plumber from Neilston said “It was a great opportunity to be part of. I really enjoyed engaging with the guests and demonstrating the skills that we have gained in class.

It’s not every day you get to go to parliament and meet the Head of Education so I really enjoyed it.

Curriculum and Quality Leader for Engineering at the Colleges Greenock campus, Harry Hunter commented, “I was extremely impressed with the enthusiastic manner that the apprentices engaged with the Scottish ministers. They took the time to explain the workings of the unit in a way that everyone could understand. I can’t praise them enough for the quality of work they delivered that evening. They are a credit to their companies and great ambassadors for the college.”

Callum Cairns and Kayleigh Canning two of the Colleges Interior Architecture students were also there to share with guests the collaborative work they have been doing with Ikea.

Interior Architecture Lecturer Marisa Giannasi, said, “We’ve been successfully collaborating with Ikea for four years now on a project that allows our students to gain hands on industry experience and we were delighted to be given the opportunity to illustrate this.

“The students were extremely proud to represent the college at such a prestigious event and took great pride in showcasing the wonderful work they have done. “