Shared Vision: Training & Career Development in West London

Training & Career Development in West London

The Current Job Market and Employment Opportunities in West London

The West London sub region comprises the districts and boroughs of Acton, Brent, Paddington, Hillingdon, Kensington, Hammersmith and Fulham, Chiswick, Ealing, Hounslow, Maida Hill, Shepherds Bush, Hanwell, Harrow, and parts of Notting Hill.

According to a report published in 2011 by the Trust for London, over the past ten years the population of West London has increased by 16 per cent, which is in fact the highest growth rate of all London boroughs. The total population of West London is in the region of 1.6 million, so the demand for services in various areas is very high indeed.

As part of one of the world's global cities, the economy of West London is thriving and provides plenty of employment opportunities to job seekers. There are approximately 58,000 business that hold a registration in West London, which provide 17 per cent of the total jobs available in London. The job market in West London is dominated by small and medium sized enterprises, and entrepreneurs increasingly tend to choose this area to set up their businesses.

The main sources of employment in West London are linked to industries like business services, research and development, media and communications, high value manufacturing technologies, and aviation. Heathrow Airport is the largest employer in the area, with over 76,500 employees on site. Over the past decade, businesses involved in the creative industries sector have also provided a large number of local jobs.

Professional career development in West London

There are three renowned higher education institutions within the boundaries of West London. The West London International Business School has been set up by the University of West London, and it currently offers courses in accounting, finance, business management, business studies, corporate communication, marketing, project management, and an MBA. Some of these degrees also offer the possibility of registering for internships. There are also foundation degrees, graduate certificates, advanced diplomas, and professional certificates available in various business related fields.

The Brunel Business School is one of the top-20 of its kind in the UK, and it has a strong focus on employability. The Middlesex University Business School has six departments offering degrees in the disciplines of accounting, finance, economics, business, management, human resources, marketing, and enterprise. Alternatively, those interested in enhancing their job prospects through an apprenticeship can contact the Ealing and Hammersmith College, the London Apprenticeship Company, and the College of North West London.

It is common for universities to put their academic expertise at the disposal of local businesses. The University of West London is no exception, as it offers a wide array of business services, including consultancy, knowledge transfer partnerships, and conference facilities. Corporate development courses are also available in the form of management and leadership qualifications, specialist short courses, and in-house customised business training. Both Brunel and Middlessex University complete the professional and corporate development offer in West London, offering personalised business solutions and links with international partners.

Additionally, work related professional development courses are offered as part of the Innovation, Communication, and Enterprise programme at the University of West London Business School. Modules can be taken separately or as part of a foundation degree.

Those interested in attending business and networking events may contact the West London Alliance or the West London Business Group. The latter effectively operates as the local chamber of commerce and organises more than 40 business events every year, including networking evenings, economic briefings, drink receptions, and business lunches at local landmarks. Other networking event organisers worth contacting are the Athena Network and BNI West.

You'll find more information about business training companies and services on Actual West London.

Further Considerations: If you do not yet have a drivers license you should consider getting one. Having a clean, current license allows you to apply for a significantly larger number of positions and gives you a greater level of flexibility in where you can work. Even within London, there are locations that are not easily accessible by public transport, and having the ability to drive can be a distinct advantage. If you do not yet know how to drive, find a driving instructor in London here.

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