Stansted airport opens jobs and skills academy

[October 20th 2008]

Stansted airport has become the first BAA airport to open a new Employment and Skills Academy as the airport expands.

Stansted was recently given the go ahead to increase passenger numbers to 35 million a year. The airport currently handles almost 23 million passengers and passenger numbers had been capped at 25 million, which would have prevented further airport expansion.

There are already over 12,000 jobs at Stansted airport, and a further 4,000 are anticipated as Stansted expands to 35 million passengers a year. Regional Minister for the East of England, Barbara Follett MP (pictured), visited the airport today to open the new Employment and Skills Academy.

"Today is all about making the link between those who want to work at the airport, the skills that are required, and the exciting job opportunities available,” commented Stansted airport managing director, Stewart Wingate (pictured).

"As the biggest single site employer in the region, with over 180 companies on-site, Stansted already plays a vital role in economic growth within our region. Vital to success are the links we have with employers, unions, local authorities and education providers, who together support and grow the airport workforce,” Wingate continued.

Stansted airport owner, BAA, plans to invest £250,000 over the next four years in the jobs and skills academy. BAA is working in partnership with regeneration agency Urban Futures to bring the one-stop-shop employment agency to the heart of the airport operation.

Urban Futures acting chief executive, Steve Delaney, commented: "Today represents a hugely exciting opportunity for the Academy as we build on the service offer for employers and individuals seeking work or new career opportunities at the airport”.

"Working in partnership with BAA, airport employers, and public agencies, we aim to ensure that the Academy is at the forefront of skills development, bringing a quality new service driven by the economic requirements of employers but tailored to individuals' needs. The Academy will represent the interface between all agencies, individuals and employers at the airport," Delaney explained.

Written by: Nick Purdom