South West College construction students examine the architecture at Stormont

The building was constructed over four years starting in 1928.

During the visit, the students met some local MLAs and the Justice Minister, which gave them a fresh look at the functioning assembly.

A firm believer of enriching the student experience by complementing subjects with practical site visits, course coordinator Mr Graham said: “The trip was great for the students particularly when such maintenance work is being completed at Stormont.

“When the students see first-hand the technical aspects of construction, it makes the curriculum become real.”

The course, offered at the Dungannon campus, is currently enrolling for its September 2015 intake and is open students from across Mid Ulster.

Mr Graham added: “In the construction class alone we have seen numbers grow year-on-year.

“Last year 30 per cent of the class travelled across from the Cookstown, Moneymore, Magherafelt areas, while this year intake is at 45 per cent.

“The fact that we achieved a grade one in the recent ETI inspection reinforces the quality of the teaching staff and curriculum on offer making the journey for learners well worthwhile.”