Tag: apprenticeships
Volvo apprenticeships offer ‘opportunity to be part of an industry transformation’
As the motor industry shifts towards a connected, electrified future, many roles within the sector have evolved beyond recognition. Jason Ratcliffe, level four master technician at Rybrook Volvo in Warrington, puts the spotlight on how the role of a vehicle technician has transformed significantly in the short time since he embarked on Volvo Car UK’s apprentice scheme aged 16.
Halfords Autocentres extends apprenticeship programme to 5 years
Halfords Autocentres has expanded its apprenticeship scheme with a new five-year plan and a 2019 investment of more than £800,000. This includes both an Apprenticeship and Halfords Technical Training Academy programme. Halfords said the extension is a response to both the growing demand for hybrid and electric cars in the UK, and the country’s scarcity of automotive skills.
Michelin opens applications for apprenticeship programme
Michelin has opened applications for the five trainee places available in its 2019 intake, with roles available in engineering and business administration in Stoke-on-Trent. Michelin’s apprenticeship programme was launched in 1927. The tyre manufacturer states that it “underpins the culture of the company overall, providing a springboard for trainees to start their careers through a tailored mix of training and work experience.”
Garage equipment apprentices win first prize in apprenticeship challenge
Autoparts Garage Equipment apprentices Louis Kane and Darren McCaig have won the Glasgow Apprenticeship Challenge, fighting off stiff competition from companies across the city.
MIRA outlines suite of automotive apprenticeships
MIRA Technology Institute, a partnership between North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College, HORIBA MIRA, Coventry University, Loughborough University and the University of Leicester has detailed a suite of apprenticeships that will underpin their ambition to help the UK develop the next generation of skilled engineers.
RMI Bodyshops welcomes announcement on apprenticeship funding
On 25 October, the government set out how apprenticeships will be funded as part of the drive to help millions get the skills they need for a successful career. The new reforms will guarantee support from employers and government, and ultimately boost our economic productivity. “The announcement from the Department for Education on apprenticeship funding is positive news for the smaller bodyshops (less than 50 employees) in the sector”, comments Jason Moseley, Director of RMI Bodyshops (NAB & VBRA), the UK’s trade association for vehicle repairers.
…but NFDA expresses concerns over timescale
“We are pleased to see that the government has responded to some of the points that have been raised regarding the new apprenticeship levy, however, we are still concerned with the short timescale of implementation”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK.
Scotlands Ash Garage adds to experienced team
Scotlands Ash Garage has appointed Jordan Montgomery as its new apprentice, with the independent garage laying out plans to invest in the business’ growth. The company said the appointment reflects its commitment to securing the future of the independent motor trade by supporting the next generation of technicians.
MG Motor invests in internship programme
MG Motor UK, has accepted seven new students onto its Automotive Engineering Internship programme for 2016/17. Open to all undergraduates taking relevant degrees within the engineering field, the initiative demonstrates the carmaker’s ongoing commitment to developing young talent.
NFDA: Associations still concerned about apprentice levy
The government has announced that employers paying the apprentice levy, which will apply to businesses with payroll bills of over £3 million, are expected to register for the digital service by January 2017. Further details about funding, government support, additional support for 16- to 18-year-olds, English and maths payments and eligibility rules are not due to be published until October 2016.
Bosch’s first automotive apprentices graduate
The first eight apprentices have completed their training and been gaining experience at Bosch’s Service Training Centre (STC) while working at their local independent Bosch Car Service garage. Over the last three years the scheme has continued to enrol more and more apprentices each year and this September will mark the fourth year it has been operating, with Bosch currently recruiting for its largest intake yet.
NFDA joins calls for delay in apprenticeship levy
The National Franchised Dealers Association has called on the government to delay the new apprenticeship levy. Due to start in April 2017, the levy will be applied to employers with a wage-bill of over £3 million who will contribute with a tax of 0.5 per cent of their wage-bill. “The NFDA supports recent calls by businesses to the government to delay the apprenticeship levy”, said Sue Robinson, director of the association.
Bridgestone continues support for National Tyres’ apprenticeship scheme
In order to back “some of the most promising automotive apprentices” making their way into the fast fit industry, Bridgestone is lending its support to National Tyres for a fourth consecutive year by providing a number of ‘tyre toolbags’ designed to help apprentices with their career adventures.
Only a few days left to comment on apprenticeship proposal
Companies in the tyre and auto-care sector have just one week to make their views known on a proposal which could determine the viability of the industry’s future workforce.
Apprenticeship levy raises concerns, says NFDA
In April 2017 a new apprenticeship levy will be introduced with the purpose of increasing the quality and number of apprenticeships across UK. Employers with a wage-bill of less than £3 million will not pay the levy, whereas those with a wage-bill of £3 million or more will have to contribute at a rate of 0.5 per cent of their pay bill. However, the first £3 million of the payroll will be excluded by a discount that will give some relief, in line with smaller businesses.