The project joins six  other nominees for the best learning and development initiative in the public sector 2019

The finalists for the esteemed international Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) awards have been announced. Kingston University’s Business School is being recognized on a global scale for a programme that aims at preparing students for their careers after graduation. Students who attend the programme develop a multitude of skills that help them be ready for the workplace, such as communication, negotiation, business networking, presentation, and critical thinking. To date, over 1,200 Kingston University students have attended the programme within 3 years. The training acts as a 3-month work placement for students who choose to participate.

Elizabeth Machtynger, the business readiness manager at Kingston Business School said the programme’s main goal is to have employers seeking Kingston graduates and providing them with the best possible job opportunities.

"We work closely with University staff, students, and employers to devise a programme of training that matches what businesses need from new recruits and to provide students with meaningful work placements that help them develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the world of work," she continued. "To be shortlisted by the CIPD as best learning and development initiative is a testament to the dedication of the staff who work on the programme as well as to the commitment of the students who have taken part."

The winners will be announced on Tuesday the 24th of September, 2019, at a black-tie Awards dinner at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.