OWNERS of Stansted airport today announced a £200,000 project to create a new employment and skills academy.The project is a unique partnership between Urban Futures and unionlearn, the TUC's learning and skills organisation, to provide a central recruitment service for employers and employees at the airport and a training centre dedicated solely to helping workers develop necessary skills.

OWNERS of Stansted airport today announced a £200,000 project to create a new employment and skills academy.

The project is a unique partnership between Urban Futures and unionlearn, the TUC's learning and skills organisation, to provide a central recruitment service for employers and employees at the airport and a training centre dedicated solely to helping workers develop necessary skills.

“With around 11,600 people currently working at Stansted Airport we are the largest single site employer in the East of England,” said Murray Thomas, human resources director for BAA Stansted.

“Stansted is a key facilitator for economic growth in the region and our strategy remains firmly focussed on partnership working with employers, employee representatives, local authorities and educational providers to support both our existing and future workforces.”

Phil Young of Urban Futures said: “The Academy will provide a framework for all elements of recruitment, training and skills support at Stansted Airport.

“Its physical presence at the airport will provide an easy gateway for employers to access the support on offer, and for individuals to access employment opportunities.”