
Uxbridge College played host to a visit by the Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning when he made a national announcement.
The College was chosen by John Hayes MP for the visit for its excellent performance and recent development work.
Mr Hayes announced that 150 Further Education colleges across the country would have the opportunity to bid for a share of £50 million for building projects.
During his visit he spoke to students and staff, and found out more about the new £6m sport and leisure development.
Uxbridge College, which teaches work-related and academic subjects to 10,000 full-time and part-time students, has an outstanding rating from Ofsted. It is also the best-performing college in London for young learners, has Beacon status and a number of other kitemarks.
Mr Hayes said: "We want to make sure as many colleges as possible can benefit from this additional funding we are offering them. The £50 million we are investing in colleges will make a real difference to college campuses throughout England.
"Colleges are an invaluable resource for individuals and can enrich lives and communities by providing courses and training vital to employers, business and the economy.
"Many colleges up and down the country are still reeling from the effects of problems seen last year in the capital investment programme, which saw a Review by Sir Andrew Foster criticise 'failures in the general management and financial management of the Learning and Skills Council'.
"Learners will be the real beneficiaries of this extra funding and we want to make the environment they work in productive and inspiring and to ensure the college facilities meet learning and business needs."
Laraine Smith OBE said: "It is a real honour for Uxbridge College to have been chosen for this announcement by John Hayes, Minister for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning. This Ministerial visit underlines the many achievements in recent years which have seen Uxbridge College become one of the best around. Mr Hayes' announcement is very welcome for Further Education."