The City University opens new Centre for Career and Skills Development

The City Universityís Centre for Career and Skills Development has opened for business in new premises on Northampton Square.

The new facility signals the beginning of its largest ever offering to students and employers and has been built to meet increasing demand from both since the Centre was established four years ago.

As well as planning for their careers after graduation, students can get help finding part-time paid work as well as voluntary placements, such as work with the local community through Widening Participation programmes.

These projects target young people from groups that are under-represented in Higher Education and aim to raise their aspirations, motivation and attainment.

Businesses meanwhile come to the centre to deliver skills workshops to students, reinforcing The City Universityís defining characteristic as the university for business and the professions.

Professor David Rhind, vice-chancellor of The City University, gave the opening address, saying: ìThis centre plays a significant role in the employability of our graduates as well as helping to maintain the good relationship we have with so many businesses.

ìWe are also concerned that the community is involved with us and the Centre aids this with the Widening Participation programme. These premises are now rightly situated at the gateway to our university and are a critical part of support and encouragement for our students.î

Wilma Martinelli, director of the Centre for Career and Skills Development, says: ìIím so happy that weíve been put at the heart of City. This is a resource where students can come and get on with their careers as soon as they start university.î

Last year the centre helped nearly 9,000 visitors.

For more information, please contact Louise Scodie in The City University press office on 020 7040 8783 or at louise.scodie.1@city.ac.uk.