John Lewis - Skills in the Workplace - fulfil your potential

From a combination of the Operating Plan objectives and an annual development needs analysis, Personnel (with input from other stakeholders) produce a timetable of development interventions and design publicity communications to ensure that all Partners are aware of what is available throughout the year.

Horizons is an integrated training package designed by Central John Lewis Training Designers intended to meet the needs of every Partner from first day induction to Steering Group level. Horizons includes behavioural and skills development packages designed to appeal to all learning preferences and includes e-learning, CDs and DVDs, books and formal training sessions. All Partners have regular development meetings with their line manager to agree their needs and a development plan is written which commits Partner and manager to ensuring these needs are met.

Partners are encouraged to learn specialist skills and pass their learning on to others and there are Partners who are proficient in areas such as sponsoring new Partners, Customer Service or Bradley Manual handling. Partners are also encouraged to work towards vocational qualifications.

Throughout the year, regular management development days and conferences take place. Steering Group play an active part in these sessions, taking the opportunity to discuss business and personal development opportunities and, to share information such as new Operating Plan aims, Partner Survey scores or financial targets.

The Learning & Development Team are qualified professionals with qualifications including CIPD Graduate and Associate membership, CITP, MBTI, FiroB and Psychological Coaching and they offer a wide range of development interventions at all levels.