Rt Hon Sir David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, participated in a Westminster Hall debate yesterday (2 April) on Further Education Funding.

The debate was secured by the Conservative MP Gloucester, Richard Graham, who called on the Government to do more to help colleges provide the skills young people need for themselves and for the country.

Sir David, who himself previously taught in an FE college, highlighted the fact that despite funding pressures, 81% of FE establishments were rated as good or outstanding at the last further education and skills inspections. He also mentioned the Bexley campus of London South East Colleges. He commented: “All Members here today will have some fantastic colleges and sixth forms in their area. In Bexley, we are fortunate to have a campus of London South East Colleges, which my right hon. Friend the Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills visited last year. She toured the campus, met students, apprentices and tutors and observed a number of lessons and activities. The college appreciated the visit, as it enabled it to showcase the outstanding work done by students, the facilities, and the plans to help upskill people in our area.”

Sir David concluded his speech by stating he hoped “the debate will give more ammunition to my right hon. Friend the Minister in her campaign with the Treasury, to ensure that we get the extra funding we need for the FE sector. Education funding at all levels should, of course, be seen as a necessary investment for our country and should be increased, but FE colleges in particular should be a priority.”