A new chapter for skills, business and workforce development across Essex and the Thames Freeport
SEATS has been announced as the Skills Partner for The Hive, DP World’s new skills, innovation and community hub at London Gateway Logistics Park.
The Hive is a major new investment by DP World, part-funded by Thames Freeport, and will become a focal point for skills development, employer collaboration and community engagement. Designed to support businesses, learners and local communities, it will bring together education, industry and training in one purpose-built facility at the heart of one of the UK’s fastest-growing logistics and trade hubs.
As Skills Partner, SEATS will work alongside DP World, employers and regional partners to help businesses develop the skilled workforce they need today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Announcing the partnership, Alan Holland, Chief Executive Officer, DP World London Gateway Logistics Park, said:
“Excitement is building as we move closer to the opening of The Hive, our new amenities hub at the heart of London Gateway Logistics Park.
A DP World asset, part-funded by Thames Freeport, The Hive will play a central role in the Freeport’s skills and training offer, creating opportunities for local people through education and career development programmes delivered in partnership with schools, colleges and community organisations.
To help bring this vision to life, I am pleased to confirm SEATS as our skills and training provider. Based within the Thames Freeport area and with a strong understanding of local and regional business needs, SEATS will deliver bespoke training programmes that help people build the skills needed for future careers across the region.
The Hive will also feature high-quality health and wellbeing facilities, including an astro pitch, padel court and indoor gym.”
The partnership reinforces SEATS’ commitment to supporting employers across Essex and the Thames Freeport with impartial advice, apprenticeships, workforce development and skills solutions that respond to real business needs.
John Tabor, Chair of the Board at SEATS, said:
“We are proud to have been selected by DP World as the Skills Partner for The Hive at London Gateway. This industry-leading partnership lets us do what we do best — building the skills employers need today while investing in the workforce of tomorrow. We look forward to working with DP World and employers across the region to make The Hive the place where businesses and people can grow together.”
Liz Storey, Managing Director of SEATS, added:
“We are delighted to be joining The Hive and working alongside DP World, employers and partners at London Gateway. It is an exciting opportunity for SEATS to strengthen our support for businesses across Essex and the Thames Freeport by connecting employers with the skills, talent and workforce solutions they need to succeed. We look forward to building new partnerships, creating opportunities and contributing to the continued growth of this thriving business community.”
More than a training centre
The Hive has been designed to become much more than a place to learn. It will provide a welcoming environment where employers can collaborate, access workforce support, explore skills solutions and connect with partners across the region.
Over the coming months, SEATS will begin delivering a programme of activities from The Hive, including employer networking events, business workshops, careers initiatives, workforce development programmes and opportunities for organisations to share best practice and build valuable connections.
This is just the beginning, with further announcements planned as The Hive prepares to open its doors.
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