Stratford MP 'has a go'
Nadhim Zahawi, MP for Stratford-upon-Avon, tried his hand
at sports massage and theatrical make-up, as part of a national
campaign encouraging people to ‘have a go’ at learning a new
skill.
The visit, to the Henley-in-Arden centre, co-incided with
the WorldSkills - the world’s largest international skills
competition in London – which aimed to inspire people to try a new
skill for themselves.
Mr Zahawi met students from the first-year theatrical make-up
course, watching attentively whilst tutor, Tracey Bridger, made a
prosthetic amputated thumb using carpet glue, cotton wool, honey
and red food colouring. He then had a go at making one himself,
using unsuspecting student, Demi Bailey as a model.
He then met second year students from the sports development
course, who were doing a module on sports massage, learning how to
treat and prevent sports injuries. Mr Zahawi then had a go at a
calf massage, alongside students Ben Cox and James Hawthorne.
Mr Zahawi said: "I found my visit to Warwickshire College
inspiring. The students and staff are clearly incredibly committed
and made me feel very welcome as I intruded into their busy
days.
"I was also heartened to hear that the government's commitment
to fund more apprenticeships and vocational training places is
working, with more students taking up opportunities and an
increased interest from employers."
Sports Instructor, Neil Bishop, said: “Mr Zahawi’s visit was
really encouraging for our students, as he was so interested in
what they were learning. He made a very good student and, with a
bit more practice, could be really proficient.”
If you feel inspired by Mr Zahawi’s example and want to find out
how to try out a new skill for yourself, then come along to one of
the college's open events.