UXBRIDGE College has been recognised for excellence in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) with a national kitemark.

A plaque marking the award of STEM Assured status to the College was presented at a recent event.

Laraine Smith OBE, Principal of Uxbridge College, received the commemorative plaque from Brendan Sleight, one of Transport for London’s chief traffic signal engineers.

Mr Sleight told the audience of science, engineering and maths staff and training partners: “I’m honoured to be here to present this award. You are an outstanding college, you’re getting bigger and better, and you’re at the forefront of the work for STEM in London.

“Schemes like this are hugely important for employers such as TfL because there is a real shortage of young engineers in London - and we need well-trained people to come into the industry and keep the capital moving.

“We also want our workforce to reflect the diversity of London’s population as a whole and to encourage people to choose STEM subjects. What you are doing to produce the right people with the right skills will make a huge difference to London and the country.”

Guests at the presentation also included Professor Sa’ad Medhat, Chief Executive of the New Engineering Foundation, the awarding body for STEM Assured Standard.

Prof Medhat said: “I have seen today the fantastic resources at this college and you are to be congratulated on the work you are doing, including your excellent apprenticeship programme with companies like British Airways.

“Ensuring people have the right training is a key factor in stimulating economic growth. Among the 250 colleges we work with there are only a small number of special colleges which qualify for STEM Assured status. Essentially it is a recognition of the hard work and effort of both staff and students in these subjects.”

Ray Ferris, Director of Curriculum for 14-19 year olds at Uxbridge College, said: "We as a College are very serious about our science, technology, engineering and maths provision and proud of our track record in it.

“Qualifying for the STEM Assured kitemark is a real accolade and builds on our continuing work to ensure our teaching and facilities are of the highest possible quality, as well as being relevant to employers.

“I would like to acknowledge the work of students, staff and all our partners in making it possible for us to achieve this prestigious award – thank you everyone.”

The prestigious STEM Assured Status is awarded to bodies which can demonstrate that they provide high quality and employer-led training and education in the subjects.