University and railway firm form new partnership

The partnership aims to tackle regional skills shortages and drive economic growth

A university and railway company have joined forces in an attempt to help boost career development for staff and students.

The partnership between Canterbury Christ Church University and Southeastern aims to tackle regional skills shortages, support regional employment opportunities and drive economic growth.

Steve Foster, people and culture director at Southeastern, said it represented a "significant step forward in our commitment to developing talent and addressing the skills challenges facing our industry and region".

He added: "By working together, we can create opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in the rail sector while providing access to learning and development opportunities."

The new partnership will also focus on curriculum design, mentoring and support for students, and identifying and developing training opportunities for Southeastern staff.

Rama Thirunamachandran, vice-chancellor and principal of the university, said: "This collaboration presents an excellent opportunity to identify and develop initiatives that benefit both organisations and our wider region.

"From supporting the continued professional development of Southeastern staff, to providing our students with outstanding real-world experience, and career opportunities for our graduates.

"This partnership will also open doors for impactful research and business insight projects that will support essential services and regional economic needs."