Tower Hamlets News

Two teenagers from Tower Hamlets were shocked to discover that Her Majesty the Queen would present them with certificates at the end of a one week ‘life course’ run by London Fire Brigade last week (12-16 February). The Queen attended the ‘pass out’ parade at Millwall Fire Station.

Frankie Fautley, aged 17 and Gousul Islam, aged 18, both from Tower Hamlets, had an action packed week with the London Fire Brigade, which runs the courses to help young people increase their self confidence. The week was the highlight of a training programme called ‘Entry to Employment’ (or e2e) which they have been following since the autumn with local Tower Hamlets training company TBG Learning, which also has Centres in Newham. E2e increases young people’s levels of qualifications in areas such as literacy and numeracy and gives practical experience and guidance on entering further education or employment.

Both youngsters were involved in a fire simulation exercise and ‘pass out parade’ before The Queen spoke personally to each of them and presented their certificates.

Frankie Fautley, described by her TBG Learning tutor as ‘determined and hard working’, attended Ilford Ursuline High School and has also worked at Hair by Alexander and done flower arranging at St Antony Church. She said:

“I’ve always been interested in the Fire Service and the week was a fantastic introduction. I’m thankful to TBG Learning for giving me the opportunity to attend and I’ll now be attending a Fire Service Open Day in March, with a view to applying.”

Gousul Islam, who attended Stepney Green School, is interested in computers and after completing his programme at TBG Learning will do further IT training. He’s described as ‘never shy to try new things and a joy to teach’.

“I was really pleased the Queen spoke to me and shook my hand,” said Gousul Islam.

TBG Learning’s Manager Darren Avery and tutors Marlon Bruce, Esme Wade Davis and Steve Smith were also introduced to Her Majesty the Queen. To join a training programme at TBG Learning telephone 020 7247 0036 or drop into the Centre at the Truman Building, 91-95 Brick Lane, E1 6QL.