Our mission to widen access to education – and how the Chamber helps

Ian Whitehead, Director of Operations at New London Educational Trust, believes being a Chamber Patron is invaluable to the Trust’s vision to connect with businesses committed to making a difference in West London. He tells Sarah Dale why.

It is West London Chambers of Commerce’s “unique platform” to raise awareness of New London Educational Trust’s mission to widen access to education which sparked the decision to join the Chamber six years ago.

Formed in 2009 and based in Hounslow, NLET is an education and employment related skills provider with the key goal of empowering learners of all ages to grow, achieve and improve their knowledge and career through training, education and employability skills.

They joined the Chamber in 2019 to connect with a network of businesses, institutions and community leaders “committed to making a difference”.

“Through our collaboration with the Chamber, we’ve supported West London residents in gaining and sustaining employment and provided upskilling opportunities for employees of local businesses,” explains Ian Whitehead, Director of Operations.

“The Chamber offers a unique platform to raise awareness of our mission among employers/businesses to widen access to education and employment support for under-represented groups and collaborate with organisations that share our goals.

“Being a Patron has been transformative. The networking opportunities have allowed us to form valuable relationships with local businesses and stakeholders who support our cause.

“The support from Sally Smith and Alan Rides at the Chamber has been immeasurable; their enthusiasm and dedication to supporting businesses in West London is inspiring. Whether providing guidance, acting as a sounding board, or creating collaborative opportunities, their contributions have been invaluable. Chamber events have provided a platform to share our vision, while their promotion has elevated our profile in the community. These connections and collaborative efforts are so helpful in expanding our programmes and reach.”

Ian advises new Chamber members to get involved with the business community by attending events, engaging in conversations and openly sharing their goals and challenges.

“The Chamber is a vibrant community, and the more you participate, the more value you’ll gain,” he adds.

“Don’t hesitate to leverage the Chamber’s resources and expertise, they are there to support you, so make the most of every opportunity.” and supporting education and health services to underprivileged young people).

“Our collaboration will see us become the UK centre for the university and will include student exchange programmes, research and knowledge-sharing initiatives, and higher education projects in partnership with UK institutions.”

They are also one of the largest exam centres in the region administering exams from GCSE/A-Level through to university admissions tests and a wide range of professional services exams.

The NLET team is proud that so many residents it has supported over the years have progressed into higher education and moving forward, the aim is to strengthen partnerships with universities and higher education institutions to “create innovative programmes that address barriers to HE for under-represented groups”.

“We are in discussions with UK universities that share our values and are excited about developing these partnerships with the ongoing support of the Chamber,” says Ian.

“We are also delighted to announce a unique collaboration with ISBM University India, who provide higher education opportunities for vulnerable communities. We share a similar mission and ethos with ISBM University, which was founded by the Alpha Foundation (an NGO committed to funding

The biggest challenge the Trust has is securing consistent funding to expand its programmes and initiatives. As an educational charity, it relies on partnerships and financial support, often through Government contracts, to serve under-represented groups. However, reduced Government funding and growing competition from private providers, including international entities, have made navigating their sector “increasingly difficult”.

“The Chamber can help by connecting us with businesses and individuals passionate about education, employability support, and social impact,” he says.

“Additionally, advocacy for the importance of widening participation in higher education and promoting our new initiatives among universities and business leaders would be invaluable.”

New London Educational Trust is also hoping to expand the team and resources.

“We are exploring new collaborative projects aligned with our mission, enabling us to deepen our impact locally while broadening our reach further afield,” he adds.

For more information about NLET, visit www.nletrust.org