The Bluewater Apprenticeship Scheme is a unique initiative and has been created to mark Bluewater’s tenth anniversary.  Based at The Learning Shop, Bluewater, the first six apprentices, began work at the beginning of September.  The apprentices will benefit from a 12-month programme that includes classroom and placement-based training to achieve an NVQ.  As significantly, the Bluewater Apprenticeship Scheme provides an insight into every aspect of running a successful retail business.

The Bluewater Apprenticeship Scheme is the latest in a series of initiatives developed by Bluewater and The Learning Shop, which is a unique partnership between Lend Lease, North West Kent College and Jobcentre Plus.  In the last ten years, Bluewater has created over 22,000 jobs, and more than 10,000 people have received formal training from The Learning Shop, with over 8,000 qualifications awarded.  Around 40% of the people employed by Bluewater fall within the 16 to 24 year old age range.  This equates to nearly 9,000 people.

This is a milestone initiative for Bluewater, The Learning Shop and the local community.