School of Thought Automotive is inviting automotive businesses to join its Pledge, a practical initiative promoting work experience in the sector.
Every participating business pledges to offer at least three days of work experience to school pupils or college students during the next academic year.
The initiative is intended to attract new talent into a sector that is evolving rapidly due to electrification, ADAS, diagnostics, and body repair innovation, reshaping the skills needed to repair vehicles safely.
To take part, businesses sign The Pledge through School of Thought Automotive. School of Thought will then contact local education organisations to identify appropriate students.
Benefits to young people:
- See the modern workshop environment
- Meet technicians, painters, estimators, parts specialists, and managers
- Understand career pathways they didn’t know existed
- Build motivation and a sense of belonging
- Gain a reference or first step toward an apprenticeship.
Benefits to employers:
- Showcase their workplace
- Inspire future talent
- Strengthen community links
- Support diversity and inclusion
- Play a direct role in solving the skills shortage.
School of Thought said: “The Pledge becomes a gateway to real opportunity. For many, this will be their first ever experience inside a professional environment. That moment can change everything — confidence, direction, ambition, and a sense of what’s possible.
“Already, businesses across the UK are stepping forward. Bodyshops, garages, parts distributors, accident repair centres, and automotive technology companies are recognising that three days can shape a future.
“The Pledge is becoming a movement, one built on generosity, community, and a shared belief that the next generation deserves a chance to shine. If you’re part of the automotive world, The Pledge is one of the simplest, most effective ways to invest in future talent.
“You don’t need a training department or a large team, just the willingness to open your doors and share what you do.”
