Automotive apprenticeships spike by nine per cent

Automotive apprenticeships rose by nine per cent in the first quarter of the new academic year, according to data from the Institute of the Motor Industry.

It found that the ‘Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle)’ pathway was the most popular choice with 1,500 starts, while the ‘Autocare Technician’ pathway also experienced a significant 38% increase, representing 28% of all automotive apprenticeship starts.

Meanwhile, there was also significant engagement of younger individuals with a substantial rise in the number of under-19s beginning automotive apprenticeships.

Emma Carrigy, Research Manager at the IMI, said, “This uplift indicates a renewed interest in both the automotive sector generally and apprenticeships as an entry route, both of which are critical to build the talent pipeline for the future.

“Our new analysis suggests automotive is gaining a broader appeal, potentially fuelled by the advanced technologies that are becoming more commonplace such as ADAS and electric vehicles. And what is particularly interesting is that there has been a pronounced uplift in intermediate-level apprenticeships which may reflect a growing demand for foundational skills and entry-level qualifications, possibly serving as a gateway to more advanced training or responding to current job market needs.”

She continued, “Compared to other industries, automotive has the 10th highest percentage increase, which is incredibly good news for a sector that has a significant skills gap to fill, And with Under 19s accounting for 64% of apprenticeship starts, there is much to be encouraged by to build the talent pipeline.”