Today, thousands of young people are receiving their T and A level results and now considering their next steps, whether that’s entering full-time work, starting an apprenticeship or heading to university. And while university remains a popular choice, apprenticeships provide a crucial route into the automotive industry, offering roles in R&D, manufacturing, supply chain, maintenance, repair – with exciting apprentice-level opportunities such as a design and development engineer, EV technician or specialist in batteries and power electronics.
Some commercial vehicle manufacturers now offer university-level qualifications as part of their apprenticeship schemes, including Level 5 engineering courses, with a truck manufacturer recently launching a degree-level sales apprenticeship – combining hands-on dealership experience with academic learning.
A key step to attracting more of the best young talent to take up an apprenticeship is raising public awareness – among young people, parents, primary and secondary schools – of just how ambitious and rewarding these roles can be. Celebrating successful apprentices can be part of that approach and with graduation ceremonies soon approaching, I was pleased recently to attend the IRTE Skills Challenge awards, now in its 13th year, praising the best bus technicians nationwide – with apprentice awards in Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork and Inspection. IRTE will also host a new HGV Skills Challenge this October, giving heavy vehicle technicians a chance to compete and showcase their expertise.
There are challenges, including availability of vacancies. Plus, the Transport Select Committee recently highlighted how limited rural bus services and high fares hinder access to education and entry-level jobs, while Somerset Council has reported some young people face up to four hours of daily travel, affecting their wellbeing and learning. The committee has recommended a national approach to youth travel concessions, therefore, and a pilot of free bus passes for under 22s. As well as supporting young people into work in the industry, such a step could also help boost ridership numbers and encourage more investment in new bus acquisition – a virtuous circle in action.
Supporting young people through accessible education and training is essential for the UK’s future prosperity, and equally important is ensuring affordable transport – whatever type of vehicle they use – to help them reach college and work.
Finally, someone familiar to commercial vehicle industry skills is Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who celebrates her 75th birthday tomorrow. As the first royal to earn an HGV licence and has driven a double-decker bus, and as Patron and Co-founder of sub-Saharan Africa charity Transaid, she has championed the sector and its fundamental role in delivering for society and communities globally. Happy Birthday, Ma’am.
