Fix Auto UK apprenticeships hits new high
Fix Auto UK apprenticeship numbers have reached a record high this year with 52 new starters joining its programme.
They will join the 200 apprentices who are already working within the repair network, taking up roles in paint and panel, vehicle damage assessment, customer service and administration.
In total, 29 franchise partners are investing in new apprentices this year, with Fix Auto Loughborough recruiting six apprentices, including two receptionists, two MET technicians, a VDA and a panel technician.
The record intake has been achieved with the support of Apprenticeship Central, who identified the most talented candidates and will now provide ongoing support throughout their journey, in close partnership with the respective individual business owners and bodyshop managers.
Extremely proud
Ian Pugh, managing director for the Advantage Group of Companies of which Fix Auto UK sits within, said: “We are extremely proud to welcome this record number of apprentices into the Fix Auto UK family. Continued investment in early careers is absolutely essential to the long-term health of our industry.
“This success would not have been possible without the outstanding commitment of the Apprenticeship Central team, who have worked tirelessly with our franchise partners to deliver such a strong recruitment campaign.
“I also want to recognise my own team within Fix Auto UK, whose passion and hard work in developing this initiative has been critical in turning our vision into reality. These are not just apprentices we hope they are our future bodyshop managers, Fix Auto UK leaders and, who knows, maybe there are some future franchisees in this cohort too.”
Tailored solution
Eleanor Baker-Barnes, commercial director for Apprenticeship Central, added: “The Fix Auto UK cohort has been created to give repairers across the group a tailored solution that actually meets their apprenticeship needs and it’s fantastic to see commitment from 29 sites.
“The calibre of apprentices is proving to be extremely high, and we’re excited to follow their journeys.
“While it’s often said attracting the younger generation into the industry is a challenge, this programme proves it is possible and it’s great to see Fix Auto UK and its Franchise Partners leading the way with real action.”
