Trying to get the right work and life balance
is something most families have to juggle with, Farzana was
determined to get it right.
“I had been working full time but it was not
giving me the flexibility I needed for my family so I started
looking for alternative part time work” said Farzana.
Having seen an advert at her local bus stop
for vacancies at Westfield Stratford City, which opens on the
13th September 2011, Farzana visited The Skills
Place - Newham to find out more.
The Skills Place – Newham specialise in
advice, training and career development within Retail, Hospitality
and Customer Service. The Skills Place – Newham is a member
of the National Skills Academy for Retail and is working with
the London Borough of Newham and Westfield Stratford City to
recruit for many of the stores due to open in September this
year.
“I had retail experience many years ago so I
was keen to attend the Retail Works programme as I knew it would
help me to find a job in retail once again. I was a little nervous
to start but the trainers made all those attending the course feel
really comfortable and we all got to know each other really well”
said Farzana.
Debra Dixon, one of The Skills Place - Newham
trainers says, “We really try and make the training as varied as we
can. We have people that join the programme with all different
types of work and life experience. I think that’s what makes the
Retail Works course so interesting and unique. The learners
experience something different every day, just as you would in a
retail environment.”
Fazana completed the course, held for three
hours a day over ten days and gained a certificate, Fazana was
invited to attend an interview with well known retailer, John
Lewis
“I am so pleased that I got offered a
part-time position with John Lewis and in the department of my
choice. I can’t wait for the store to open. I don’t think my
children thought I could do it but they are very proud of me and I
am proud of me too! You just need to believe in yourself!”
For more information on
careers at Westfield Stratford City, click
here or call The Skills Place - Newham on: 0800 65 25
414. Alternatively you can email theskillsplace@seetec.co.uk