The latest episode of Panorama launched last night on BBC One, exploring Labour’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes in England by 2029. In the programme, RTS Award-winning broadcaster Anita Rani toured the high-end facilities at College of North West London to speak to the people who are training the next generation of plasterers, carpenters, construction workers and refrigeration engineers.
In the programme, United Colleges Group CEO and Group Principal, Stephen Davis, spoke to Anita about some of the barriers to delivering high-quality skills training, and Plastering tutor Robert Connolly discussed the need to attract more young people into the industry. Anita even tried her hand at plastering, although she might want to enrol at College of North West London for a few more training sessions before taking on any DIY projects.
In addition to her conversations with staff members, Anita spoke to United Colleges Group learners, including Beheshta, Archie and Alfie, about their views on training in the construction industry and their concerns about the affordability of housing for their generation.
United Colleges Group was also mentioned in the Panorama package for Radio 4’s PM programme, streaming to over 9 million listeners.
Catch Panorama’s The Race to Build 1.5 Million Homes on iPlayer now.
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
