Learners provide bags of support at retail outlet

A group of Training 2000 learners will get hands on retail experience when they help a local community interest organisation set up shop.

Eight youngsters have spent time over the past six weeks helping with research and design and setting up the Mum’s The Word shop, which sells children’s pre-loved school uniforms and activity items at a fraction of the usual cost.

The team has been busy preparing for the Back to School themed launch and will help to dress the store with much-needed stock.

Co-founded by 'mumtrepreneurs' Rachel Rhodes and Caroline Fotios, Mum’s The Word also provides a textile and footwear recycling service and The Mall Blackburn has provided them with a unit, equipment and marketing support free of charge, during its busiest time of year.

Organised through the training provider’s pre-apprenticeship programme, a scheme which equips people with the skills required to start their career, the group will get hands on retail experience to prepare them for the world of work.

Sarah Lang, career development officer at Training 2000, said: “We’re delighted to be helping Rachel and Caroline with their business venture, not only because it will benefit parents in the area, but also because it will provide a valuable opportunity for our pre-apprentices to gain valuable work experience.

“This partnership has given these young people a chance to develop their communication and team building skills, which will help them to secure a job and they are all really enjoying the experience.” Rachel Rhodes, co-founder of Mum’s the Word, added: “The Training 2000 learners are a great help and we are extremely excited about what we envisage will be an extremely successful summer for the business.”