Thatcham Research welcomes 2021 intake
Thatcham Research has announced that more than 150 apprentices will join its programme this year.
The first 35 started on Monday, with a second group due to join at the end of November.
Backed by major employers such as Solus, Activate Group, and AW Repair Group, the apprenticeship programme includes on-site learning at Thatcham Research’s state-of-the-art Automotive Academy as well as remote learning via Microsoft Teams Education, which is underpinned by Thatcham Research’s blended learning tools, ecademy and eportfolio.
On completion of their training, which typically takes 36 months, apprentices will emerge as educated and well-equipped technicians, helping to future-proof businesses with new skills and knowledge.
Dean Lander, Thatcham Research head of repair sector services, said: “It is really positive to see that demand for our apprenticeships is as strong as ever. It highlights how attractive the automotive industry can be as a career option for young people. We are delighted to provide vital skills and increase job opportunities for apprentices, bringing more young people into the industry, and nurturing their talents to alleviate the skills crisis.”
In addition, Thatcham Research is also working with employers to develop cohorts of workers. For example, Apollo Motor Group is onboarding up to 30 new starters, in dedicated groups.
Bradley Eyles, commercial director at Apollo Motor Group said: “We are delighted to announce a strategic partnership with Thatcham Research as our new training provider. It was clear after initial meetings that Thatcham Research was the perfect fit for Apollo, as both senior leadership teams share the same vision and passion for developing a future talent pipeline and addressing the major skills shortage across the industry.”
Meanwhile, Thatcham Research has announced it will be donating £5,000 to Autoraise.
Lander said: “With training provider incentive payments, like those received by employers for eligible apprentices, it is only right we support Autoraise’s ‘pay it back’ campaign. This unprecedented success is down to organisations like Autoraise shining a light on the skills crisis and supporting repair sector investment in the next generation, and Thatcham Research is pleased to back such initiatives.”
