The Learning Shop, Bluewater scoops community award

Bluewater shopping Centre in Kent, South England,

has been awarded the European Community Support Award by the International Council of Shopping Centers Foundation (ICSC). Bluewater was recognized for its commitment to supporting the local community through the Learning Shop, its pioneering partnership with North West Kent College and Job Centre Plus. The Learning Shop will also receive a $5000 bursary from the ICSC foundation.

Bluewater’s general manager Andrew Parkinson said: “Bluewater is extremely proud to have been awarded this highly respected accolade. Creating opportunities and supporting the local community, in particular through employment and training, is extremely important to Bluewater. By working in partnership with The Learning Shop, we are proud to be creating immediate, tangible and significant benefits for the community.”

Ann Komzolik, managing director of NWK Business Services at North West Kent College, added: “We are thrilled to have to won this prestigious award. For the past 12 years, The Learning Shop, Bluewater, has been committed to finding employment and delivering professional training for the local community and providing Bluewater and local businesses with highly motivated and experienced candidates. To be recognised for our on-going work and commitment is a fantastic achievement.”

During the past 12 years, The Learning Shop has found employment for over 26,000 people from the local community, trained more than 12,000 and awarded nearly 10,000 qualifications.