A 17-year-old refugee has finished his work experience at at the House of Lords.

Ali Qasimi from Barnet and Southgate College is on the Bridging Business course at the Wood Street Campus and has recently completed his work experience with Lord Roger Roberts of Llandudno at the House of Lords in Westminster.

Ali lives in Golders Green and arrived in London on his own at the age of 14 as a child refugee from Afghanistan in 2016.

Ali sings as part of the Citizens of the World Choir in North Greenwich, where Lord Roberts he is a patron.

Ali Qasimi said: “A careers advisor at Barnet and Southgate College recommended that I enrol onto the bridging course (with a business pathway) so that I could get my English and maths GCSE’s, eventually I’d like to stay on at the College and do my A levels.

“I’m really proud to win the award from social services and really enjoyed the awards presentation.

“I love coming into College and it was part of my course that I had to find several weeks of work experience, so I contacted Lord Roger Roberts.

“It was just amazing to be in Westminster, mixing with and meeting other peers and I saw all the goings on of the House of Lords, it was a unique experience that’ll I’ll never forget.”

Lord Roberts of Llandudno said: “Following the most difficult of journeys, Ali arrived in the United Kingdom and by his very kindly nature was soon one of our most popular residents.

“In the Citizens of the World choir he was much admired for his ability to get along with folk in very challenging circumstances.

“Always respectful grateful and generous he is an outstanding choir member and we are proud to have him amongst us.

"During his work experience in Parliament, Ali was always cheerful, and a joy to have around.

“He was eager to learn, and managed to complete all tasks which were given to him.”