A college’s “wonderful work” in helping young people get into work was recognised by a special visitor.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Iain Duncan Smith dropped in on Stanmore College in Elm Court in Stanmore yesterday, accompanied by local MP Bob Blackman.

Mr Duncan Smith toured the college’s facilities, including the new learning centre and library, and spoke to students about life there.

He met members of the student executive over tea before setting off to visit business students, who were rehearsing “Dragon’s Den” style questions.

He then dropped in on a class of unemployed learners referred by Job Centre Plus who were studying a Sage accounting package. 

He listened carefully to their stories of how they had become unemployed and their efforts to gain new skills to help in their job hunt. 

Principal Jacqui Mace said she was very proud to show Mr Duncan Smith and Mr Blackman around the college. 

She said: “As usual, our students were welcoming and articulate and greatly appreciated the time he gave to them. 

“I was able to show him some of the great facilities we have and our plans for further improvement which are currently underway.”

Mr Blackman said: “Stanmore College is an excellent institution and it’s only getting better all of the time, so it was a pleasure to be able to show Iain Duncan Smith the wonderful work being done to help people into employment in our area.”