MP visits Boots in support of on-site learning centre for staff

Date article online: 15/04/2008

Paul Rowen MP showed his support for the recently opened ‘Reboot Learning Centre’ at Boots Distribution Centre by paying learners a visit.

Mr Rowen met with employees who are being supported by the company to gain qualifications in subjects such as Business Administration, Customer Service, Information Technology and Numeracy and Literacy. Hopwood Hall College along with other local learning providers have been drafted in to offer the training courses in a move towards increasing the work force’s employability skills for when the Dane Street distribution centre closes its doors in 2009.

More qualifications are due to be launched soon such as courses on food hygiene and assertiveness.

The learning opportunities have been embraced by many employees such as Jean McKay and Martin Kerr. Jean commented: "As well as really enjoying the course I’m studying and learning new methods of solving problems, I'm delighted with what I have achieved so far."

Hopwood Hall tutor Kenny Airey delivers numeracy lessons at The Reboot Centre. He said: “The learners are progressing well. By the end of the course, they will gain nationally recognised qualifications that will no doubt give them the edge when looking for new employment.”

After viewing the facilities and chatting with the learners Mr Rowen commented: “I’m really pleased both with Boots’ socially responsible attitude to training their staff and the excellent work being done with Hopwood Hall and other providers to help staff upskill themselves. The re-development of Rochdale is well underway and projects such as Kingsway offer plenty of exciting career opportunities for the future.”