28th October 2016
The Technical Skills Academy celebrated its 4th birthday last week, on the same day as ?Wear it Pink? day.
Opened in 2012 by MP Ed Balls, who is currently starring on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, the Academy located next to the new Asda in Barking town centre, has proved very popular.
It was purpose-built to provide a real-work environment that resembles the workplace. As well as classrooms, there is a restaurant, including a Starbuck’s, and three salons on site for hair and beauty, run commercially and open to the public, in order for students to gain as much ‘real-work’ experience as possible.
Hilary Moore, Head of the Technical Skills Academy said: “It is amazing to think that four years have gone by since the Academy was officially opened by Ed Balls.
“Since then many hundreds of students have started their career paths of choice, achieved and progressed to University, to apprenticeships and employment with relevant work ready skills and experience. It was typical of students and staff not only to celebrate but also to support a charity, ‘Wear it Pink’, at the same time.”
The students and staff supported the ‘Wear it Pink’ breast cancer campaign on 21st October by baking and selling cupcakes and celebrated the Academy’s birthday by creating posters.
