THANET College has been awarded £800,000 of European Social Fund (ESF) funding for five educational projects, benefiting the people and businesses of East Kent.

The news was announced at a lunch at the Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, attended by Baroness Nicholson of Winterbourne, MEP for the South East region, and more than 100 local business people and local politicians.

ESF focuses on employability and equality of opportunity and Thanet College has developed the five projects to meet specific employment needs in East Kent. The projects cover aviation, basic skills, women returners, developing managers and career advice and guidance. The college meets the learning needs of more than 7,500 students and business customers and this year's projects will cater for 1,200 new student customers.

For more information about courses contact 01843 605049.