Students Show Tom

10.13.31am GMT Mon 1st Dec 2008

On Friday 21st November, Tom Brake, Liberal Democrat MP for Carshalton and Wallington, made a visit to the Skills and Integrated Learning Centre (SILC), a centre specialising in teaching constructions skills to teenagers. SILC is based in the Eagle Trading Estate, Willow Lane in Mitcham

The programme was founded by Chaz Watson, to give kids the chance to pursue a vocational rather than an academic route.

SILC provides basic construction skills tutorials and other training for young people. Students learn about tools, technique, planning and estimating, with the purpose of giving students a foothold for their future development in their chosen career path.

Mr. Brake attended the open day at the centre both to examine the workshop and talk with the youngsters there.

'This is a fantastic programme and really shows the participants the skills and mindset they will need to get ahead later in life,' commented Tom Brake MP.

At the workshop, Mr. Brake took the time to talk to the students and get a first-hand look at what the workshop teaches.

'It's incredibly hands-on learning,' commented Tom Brake. 'And the staff there are truly dedicated to their work.'