The visit offered the minister the opportunity to meet and talk with students and apprentices studying a number of vocational courses including engineering, joinery and construction. 

Accompanied by local Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan, Mr Hepburn also had the chance to hear about the College’s ambitious plans for the future provision of the highest-quality Further Education for the local community. 

West College Scotland’s Finnart Street buildings are situated in Greenock’s town centre, parts of which rank highest for levels of deprivation in Scotland.  

The College is already playing a vital role in skills provision for local businesses and is working closely with partners to ensure it continues to provide the learning and training opportunities required to help support the region to economically recover from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.  

Liz Connolly, Principal of West College Scotland said: “We were delighted to host the minister, giving Mr Hepburn the opportunity to meet a number of our students and to discuss with him West College Scotland’s ambitious commitments for the future provision of the highest-quality further education to the Inverclyde community.” 

The visit concluded with refreshments created and served by students studying Level 5 Hospitality at the College.  

Minister for Further Education, Jamie Hepburn MSP talks with West College Scotland Principal Liz Connolly.  

(Photography Credit: John Masson/West College Scotland HND Photography Graduate)