Taiwo Owatemi, MP for Coventry North West, began her visit by exploring the college’s newly refurbished engineering workshops, which have been upgraded to include the latest CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) machines. These new facilities are a fundamental part of the college’s T Level Engineering programme, offering students hands-on experience with modern technology that mirrors the equipment they will encounter in the workplace.
During her tour of the engineering workshops, Taiwo Owatemi had the opportunity to meet with staff and students who shared their enthusiasm for the programme. The T Level Engineering students spoke about the practical skills they have developed, from 3D design to precision manufacturing, and how the enhanced facilities are giving them a competitive edge in their future careers.
The tour continued with a visit to the college’s new Hospital Suite, an immersive learning environment dedicated to students pursuing the T Level in Nursing. The suite replicates a real hospital setting, complete with simulation dummies and industry-standard equipment, providing students with the unique experience they need to enter the healthcare sector with confidence.
Taiwo was particularly impressed with how the facility bridges the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that students graduate with both the knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in healthcare roles. The MP met with T Level Nursing students, who shared their aspirations of becoming nurses and healthcare professionals, as well as how the college’s resources are helping them prepare for such vital roles in the NHS and beyond.
Speaking about her visit, Taiwo Owatemi said: “My recent visit to Coventry College was incredibly uplifting. Touring the new T Level facilities – from the impressive engineering machinery with advanced simulator equipment to the motor vehicle workshops – highlighted the college’s strong commitment to providing students with real industry experience. I was especially pleased to spend time with nursing students, who presented thoughtful projects on mental health, eating disorders, SEND inclusion, and other vital issues affecting our communities. I was particularly struck by how well the facilities connects what students learn in the classroom with hands-on, practical experience, giving them the confidence and capabilities they need to thrive in healthcare roles.
“I also valued the opportunity to speak with the college’s leadership team about the importance of continued investment needed to ensure students are equipped with the skills and confidence required in today’s workforce.”
The college’s Principal, Carol Thomas, also shared her thoughts on the visit:
“I was delighted to spend time with Taiwo showcasing the wonderful transformation of Coventry College and in particularly our £13m investment over the course of the last five years across a range of in-demand curriculum areas. Taiwo’s support for Coventry College as the only general further education college in the City of Coventry is pertinent to ensuring that we are the flagship beacon of technical excellence to the benefit of our residents.”
Coventry College continues to lead the way in delivering innovative education through its T Level programmes, ensuring learners have access to the very best facilities and training opportunities. The visit from Taiwo Owatemi MP further underscores the importance of providing young people with the skills and confidence to build successful careers in industries that are vital to the local and national economy.
