Only half of automotive apprentices complete EPAs
Nearly a half of automotive apprentices either leave the programme early or fail their End Point Assessments.
Figures have revealed that the national apprenticeship achievement rate was just under 55% in 2022/23.
This high drop off rate is costing businesses both time and money, while meaning the automotive aftermarket is missing out on valuable skills.
This comes after the IMI revealed that job vacancies in the sector are at a two-decade high, while apprenticeship starts are still 31% lower than pre-pandemic levels.
However, a lack of technical ability is rarely the reason apprentices fail to complete their programmes, with studies identifying other contributing factors including poor support, weak mentorship, low engagement, travel costs, poor communication and a lack of meaningful skills development.
Meanwhile, employers cite time constraints as barriers to managing apprentices effectively.
To support bodyshops, Apprenticeship Central has developed two programmes – RECRUIT and RETAIN – to help them identify suitable candidates and then engage with them better to improve retention rates.
RETAIN offers a range of comprehensive, non-vocational support to apprentices and their employers.
- It acts as a Designated Safeguarding Lead, handling all compliance and providing confidential, expert support to apprentices.
- Acting as a trusted third party between employers, the apprentice and training provider to resolve issues before they escalate.
- Mentoring, tracking, safeguarding and support is covered leaving employers to focus on running their business.
