As Minister for the Olympics my job is a hugely varied one. On any given day I might be meeting with Lord Coe, the Mayor of London, or overseas government Ministers to discuss the latest big issues, or visiting the workers who are making such rapid progress in building the venues for the Games, or going to see the vast array of 2012 legacy projects across the country. I might even be travelling overseas to meet young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who are taking part in sporting projects thanks to our ‘International Inspiration’ programme.

In all this work, I am supported by staff at the Government Olympics Executive. Not only are they working to make sure that we stay on track for an incredible Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012, they are also making sure that we make the most of the economic and social opportunities that the Games bring, and that people from right across the country can reap the benefits.

Over the last two years, we have made remarkable progress. Almost half of the ‘Big Build’ is now complete – on time and on budget. Already the venues that will provide the backdrop for the iconic images of 2012 are taking shape on the East London skyline; the stadium, standing higher than Nelson’s Column; the dramatic, wave-shaped roof of the aquatics centre; the velodrome that will be the fastest in the world.

But progress is just as advanced on the less visible part of our preparations for the Games - the legacy of 2012. Our legacy programme is already bringing benefits to individuals and communities all around the country. And a major part of this work is our determination to use the power of the Games to inspire a generation of young people.

Our Get Set programme, for example, is delivering the excitement of the Games into thousands of classrooms, colleges, and other education providers all around the country. Media students at Sheffield Hallam will be amongst the first to benefit from new modules designed to introduce them to working with the media during major sport events. It is a course that will also include the chance to work with some of the 40,000 members of the media who will descend on London in 2012.

Opportunities like these will only get bigger and better as London 2012 approaches. They will be your chance to become a part of something unique - make sure you don’t miss out!

Tessa Jowell MP is the Minister for the Cabinet Office, the Olympics, London and Paymaster General.