A significant element of our community support programme aims to provide opportunities for local jobseekers and young people to benefit from training and job opportunities. Previously, we have launched a recruit and train initiative in Southall which has helped over 140 local residents to access training and get advice and guidance in areas such as CV preparation and job search.

In 2007, Heathrow secured funding for a new centre of vocational excellence, a specialist area of vocational provision demonstrating the close links between the airport, our business partners and communities.

We aim to provide workers with nationally recognised qualifications which enhance their skills and career prospects, increasing the employability of new entrants to the labour market and the prospects of those seeking work.

An example of this is the Retail Academy. The Academy was set-up by BAA and our retail partners in June 2004 to enhance staff recruitment and development. It runs a retail apprenticeship which was launched in April 2005. Apprenticeships offer staff under the age of 25 a great opportunity to earn a City and Guilds accredited qualification. 

Our retail partners employ around 5,000 staff (set to increase dramatically with the opening of Terminal 5) and are always on the lookout for committed and enthusiastic people who can deliver great customer service. By centralising recruitment we have increased productivity and have already placed over 800 people in to work at the airport. For further information about Heathrow's Retail Academy, please contact karima_sakhi@baa.com.

There are many more ways for local young people to benefit from opportunities at Heathrow. For more information: 

Visit our careers website