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.