Michael Russell MSP Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, visited Jewel & Esk College on Friday 26th February. 

 The Cabinet Secretary was able to enjoy first hand experience of the amazing new facilities at the Edinburgh Campus and meet students who are turning their careers around following the recession. 
Jewel & Esk College’s multimillion pound build project opened in November 2008.  It was the first Further Education capital improvement project to be started and completed since the SNP government came to power.
Mr Russell toured CRE:8, the heart of the faculty of Creative Industries & Arts, where he met students working in different areas.  Sound production students work with mixing desks from SSL, used by the world’s top producers; music students rehearse and perform in the 110 seat auditorium; television students film in the studio with infinity coving and edit their work in 6 Avid editing suites.
Mr Russell also visited the Club, home to the college’s rooftop restaurant, hair & beauty salons and gym & spa.  Students learn in training kitchens and salons, and then gain valuable real life working experience within a totally commercial environment, working to the highest professional standards with customers and clients in the Club.  During his visit Mr Russell met some students who have been directly affected by the recession and are now training for careers in the health and fitness industry. 
Peter Malcolm, Acting Principal of Jewel & Esk College, said, “Colleges play a pivotal role in improving skills and getting people back on their feet after a recession.  Working together with partner organisations throughout the community as well as other colleges and universities, we are in a prime position to help people back into work or study.  With Jewel & Esk College’s fantastic new teaching facilities we are best placed to play a key role in training the workforce of the future.”
Michael Russell, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “I have been very impressed with the way colleges have stepped up to the mark to meet the needs of Scottish learners, something which is much needed, especially during these difficult economic times.

“We know that colleges have their fingers firmly on the economic pulse and are well placed to gauge the needs of businesses and individuals alike. The students I have met today, who will be able to switch careers thanks to the training they are receiving, are themselves an example of how our colleges can adapt to meet these needs.”