CONGRATULATIONS are going out to the South-West School of Plastering, based near Wellington, and Somerset College this week.

Somerset College has completed a successful first year in a franchise partnership, in delivering a range of new training and development opportunities in plastering, and all plastering related occupations.

The partnership came about when the company was brought to the colleges attention because of its professionalism and the standard of its facility.

Since joining forces, 45 students have gained a City Guilds level one in plastering, with the chance of gaining a new NVQ level two in plastering, dry lining and wall and floor tiling.

Paul Robottom, head of enterprise and employer relations at Somerset College, said: "This has been an excellent first year for the company, and the students have all really appreciated the high quality and professionalism of training delivered."