On a beautifully sunny day, Chris Kirk and I had the pleasure of visiting Farnborough College of Technology, a place where innovation, creativity, and ambition are clearly thriving. From the moment we arrived, it was evident that the atmosphere was one of positivity and purpose. Students moved confidently through the campus, engaged in their learning and proud of their achievements.
One of the highlights of the visit was exploring the college’s impressive engineering provision. The college boasts a state-of-the-art Aerospace Research and Innovation Centre, which supports collaboration between students, universities, and industry partners, and provides hands-on experience with real aircraft. We were given a tour of their on-site aeroplane, a unique and exciting resource that brings aerospace engineering to life for students. Hearing about the technical training available to learners was truly inspiring – it’s clear that Farnborough is equipping the next generation of engineers with the skills and confidence they need to soar.
Equally captivating was the fashion design department, known for its innovative and high-quality student work. A notable example includes the creation of a bespoke dress for the Principal’s Honours event at Buckingham Palace, showcasing both technical skill and storytelling through design. The craftsmanship and teamwork behind the piece were remarkable, a testament to the talent and dedication nurtured within the college.
The Principal herself, Virginia Barrett OBE, is a standout leader, bringing years of extensive experience in the education sector to her role. She leads with strength, resilience, and a collaborative spirit, serving as a powerful role model for both staff and students. Her commitment to excellence and innovation is reflected in every corner of the college. She is known for being highly visible and approachable on campus, leading by example and fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment. Her leadership is described as transformative, with a strong focus on student success and community engagement.
Virginia’s achievements include overseeing the college’s journey to achieving beyond outstanding results, spearheading the development of the Aerospace Research and Innovation Centre, enhancing the college’s science, technology, engingeering and maths (STEM) capabilities, and leading sustainability initiatives, including a Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to reduce the college’s carbon footprint and inspire local communities.
Farnborough Technical College is more than just a place of learning – it’s a vibrant community where students are empowered to dream big and achieve even bigger. We left feeling inspired and optimistic about the future of technical education in the region.