New real work environments - including a fitness studio - have opened as part of a training initiative to help local people in Southwark to access jobs in the new Shard development.

Hands-on vocational training will be provided as a result of a partnership between Sellar, the developer behind The Shard; Southwark Council; and Southwark College. Former classrooms and lecture theatres have been converted into new workshops and public retail units to give students the practical experience needed to deal with customers.

Meanwhile, the partnership is also working to secure first interviews for college students in a variety of positions within The Shard - including the Shangri-La Hotel. The 202-room hotel will be located between floors 34 and 52 of The Shard and will feature an indoor swimming pool; fitness centre; and a whirlpool, as well as a themed bar.

Sellar Group chair Irvine Sellar said: "Most people can see the Shard emerging skywards but now they can begin to see the wider benefits of the scheme. "This facility gives Southwark residents access to gain the direct skills associated with jobs in the development."

Southwark Council cabinet member for regeneration Fiona Colley added: "The innovative and highly practical real work environments, and the early collaborations with future occupiers give students a real edge when it comes to getting a job." Image: Duncan Harris