A TOP charity executive was given an impromptu cooking lesson during a fact-finding visit to Redbridge College.

Martin Narey, chief executive of Barnardo's, was shown how to peel potatoes and make Christmas pudding when he dropped in at the centre in Ilford to get a taste of life for its students.

Mr Narey, who is a member of the college's governing board, was also given a manicure and taken on a tour of the buildings facilities during the visit, and was impressed by what he saw.

He said: "It’s one thing making decisions in meetings, but it’s no good without knowing what being a student here is like.

"I was just speaking to catering student Sandra Kyokunda, finding out her plans for her career, and it brings everything to life for me.

"This College is terrific – the students here are making great achievements, even though some of them have not come from a background of traditional academic success."

Sandra, 19, said: "Martin was really friendly, and asked me about the course, my future plans and the work experience I have had.

"I think it’s important that he knows what it’s like to be a student, and that he sees how hard we work to achieve our ambitions, so that he can make informed decisions."

For more information about the college call: 8548 7431 or visit: redbridge-college.ac.uk.