A WORLD-CLASS training centre has been launched at the site of a global pharmaceutical company's Ulverston base.

GSK has opened its Site Learning Zone, which is used by all staff within the company.

The facility's features include areas for simulated working and sterile manufacturing training, problem solving, and a cinema area for lecturers and presentations.

Staff from GSK Ulverston travelled to the international health care company's Singapore base for inspiration for the development of the new centre.

The learning zone was opened this month by David Tudor, the vice-president of global primary manufacturing at GSK.

Terry Sandham, a learning and development adviser at GSK Ulverston said: "This is a world-class training centre. GSK Ulverston has a showpiece training facility.

"The Site Learning Zone is in full use and it is booked out every day."

Mr Sandham said the facility is not just for new starters and apprentices, but it is for all the workforce, across all departments, to improve capability across the site.

Kai Athersmith, 18, a control systems apprentice, said: "It is fantastic to see such a large investment into a fantastic new facility, giving us the opportunity to learn and develop our skills, in a safe environment."

The Golden Apple Award's Apprentice of the Year finalist said there is great benefit in being in able to use features such as the clean area – simulation, which provides training for the correct gowning procedure for entering the company's sterile facility.

He said the learning zone is a place to build confidence before starting to do the job for real.

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