London South East Colleges is supporting nine talented apprentices to embark on exciting automotive careers through an innovative collaboration with industry and charity partners.
The partnership comprises Halfords, the Palmer Foundation, London South East Colleges, the Institute of the Motor Industry, and First Step Trust, who joined forces to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds get into automotive careers.
Together, they are developing a model designed to create new and more diverse pathways into automotive careers: FAST - Future Automotive Skills &Talent.
Following a launch of the partnership during last year's National Apprenticeship Week, College students were invited to apply for a Level 2 Automotive Technician apprenticeship with Halfords. Nine opportunities were offered, and a year later, the apprentices are thriving and well on their way to becoming qualified technicians.
Neil Coates, Deputy Principal of Apprenticeships, Adults and Higher Education, is leading the partnership for London South East Colleges. He says:
"This collaboration was developed in response to the chronic skills shortage being faced by the industry. According to The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), 111,400 technician roles will need to be filled in the next 10 years.
"At the College, we are committed to offering diverse opportunities for people across our region. Working with employers is key to this, ensuring we identify the sectors that are most in need of skills and talent.
"Our apprentices are doing brilliantly, and we look forward to taking this partnership forward to create even more opportunities for learners - while supporting industry with skills gaps."
Andy Turbefield, Halfords' Head of Quality, says:
"There is an enormous win-win opportunity - for young people and for the automotive sector - if pathways can be created so people don't fall out of the system. We are keen to attract young learners who have the right attitude but who may lack the confidence and support systems needed to transition from a college course to the world of work. That's what the FAST programme is all about - and together with our partners, we are delighted to see its success so far."
Callum Haines is a Palmer Apprentice at Halfords Autocentre in Croydon, south London. He was labouring at funfairs while studying at London South East Colleges when the opportunity to apply for a Palmer Apprenticeship came along.
"I've always wanted to be a mechanical engineer since I was a child, so it's a dream come true," said Callum. Since he started his apprenticeship, Callum has been changing gearboxes, doing oil services, tyre repairs, and brake checks.
Lewi Berry is based at Halfords Autocentre in Sydenham. He says: "It's been an amazing learning experience. The technicians are all welcoming, and it's just been an amazing experience, seeing first-hand how a Halfords garage is run."
Sean Kipling-Salmon is based at Halfords Autocentre in Beckenham. He said:
"Working here gives structure to my life and has helped me reconnect with my kids, They are my driving force so it's good to be on top of things again. My daily routine involves me in learning new skills as well as using ones I learned with First Step Trust.
"The manager and staff are always there to help out with anything I'm not sure about something, or I need a bit of support when doing something new to me. Things are also good at College where I'm learning more about the theory behind motor vehicles so I'm looking ahead with confidence and pride in my achievements."