Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), which originally opened as a Mechanics Institute in 1823, is now one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK. Named after Sir John Moores – the entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded the Littlewoods retail empire – the university comprises three large campuses, with the central ‘City’ campus just a short walk from some of Liverpool’s main sites, including the World Museum, the Walker Art Gallery and St George’s Hall. Home to around 25,000 students from over 100 countries worldwide, LJMU prides itself on being an integral part of Liverpool’s cultural landscape. Tate Liverpool, the Everyman Theatre and Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra are just some of the partners that support the university in making learning and culture accessible to students. LJMU's academic partnerships include further education colleges, ‎hospital trusts, public services and private companies, as well as other universities in Europe, Asia and the USA, with which it collaborates on world-leading research projects and study abroad opportunities for students. The university emphasises a practical, hands-on approach in its teaching, with student facilities that include nursing and midwifery suites, science and engineering laboratories, an art gallery and a mock court room. It also has its own Centre of Entrepreneurship that supports upwards of 2,000 students every year in developing their own businesses. In 2015, it introduced a £500,000 start-up fund to offer grants and awards for innovative student ventures. LJMU degree courses are developed in partnership with industry partners and, with work experience being an intrinsic part of every course, the university’s graduates are much sought after by employers. Alumni of LJMU include comedian Caroline Aherne, actor Claire Foy, Olympic athlete Beth Tweddle, and former President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed.