A Kent commercial vehicle dealership is celebrating their training academy during this year’s National Apprenticeship Week (February 5-11).
Sparshatt Truck and Van has embraced the rise of automotive apprenticeships following a 200 per cent rise in applications for its training academy in 2024.
According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the latest three-month period has seen the highest rise in new starters compared to the previous year, with an uplift of 9 per cent, and a particular rise in apprenticeships being undertaken by those aged under 19.
Owing to growing interest and understanding of job opportunities in the automotive sector, and rising needs for highly skilled technicians in the industry, Sparshatt Truck and Van saw over 240 applicants for spots on this year’s intake, compared to 80 the year prior, with the uplift in sector apprenticeships meaning expansion to the programme is being considered.
Sparshatt Truck and Van is an award-winning Mercedes Benz and FUSO commercial vehicle dealer with depots across Kent in Sittingbourne, Dartford, Tonbridge and Ashford, which last month took on another nine apprentice technicians to its esteemed training academy, providing a platform to kick-start a career in the automotive industry.
Apprentices Zion, Cavell and Alistair with Sparshatt Academy Trainer James Avison
The Sparshatt Training Academy delivers exemplary apprenticeship training, providing a high-quality learning experience, underpinned by company values of ‘people’, ‘passion’ and ‘excellence’.
Providing its apprentices with a wide range of skills to succeed in the industry, as well as the opportunity learn about Mercedes-Benz trucks, one of the most recognised and luxurious brands in the world, Sparshatt places emphasis on investing in young technicians and training them up to reach the industry standard in a welcoming, expert environment.
Apprentices are given the opportunity to learn on the job alongside highly-qualified Mercedes-Benz technicians to gain a thorough understanding of how to use up-to-date tools and equipment. The end result is to become a qualified HGV technician with a recognised qualification.
The academy is headed up by James Avison, who took on the role of Sparshatt Academy Trainer after working on truck workshops for many years, and is now offering a hands-on learning while keeping abreast of the latest automotive technology.
As well as James, the apprentices are overseen by Sarah Hayward, who ensures they are supported throughout their journey, and is always on hand to help each be the best they can be in her role as Academy Pastoral and Learning Coach.
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Sparshatt Truck & Van sought insight from three of its Apprentice Technicians.
First year Apprentice Technician, Cavell Beckford-Trotman, said: “I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship with Sparshatt Truck and Van.
“I did a college course for something else which lasted two years, and I’ve learned more here in the past three weeks than I did throughout that whole time.
“Best of all, it’s really fun – I’ve always tinkered with cars and the next step was heavy vehicles. It’s something new and I already know this is something I’ll take with me for the rest of my life.”
Second year apprentice, Prince Honorat, said: “I didn’t feel comfortable about being in the workshop to start with, but it wasn’t long before I felt right at home.
“I love working with my hands and having to think about everything that I’m doing. Everybody’s fantastic here, there are a lot of technicians that are around and you can ask for help without feeling like you’re inconveniencing them.
“It’s great to have processes and structures to follow, there’s no cutting corners in this job!
It’s been fantastic to build up my skills while making money at the same time, and I’m really grateful to have been given this opportunity.”
Final year apprentice, Jack England said: “I really enjoy the physical side of the apprenticeship, combined with learning the mechanical aspect, allowing me to apply my skills and knowledge in different ways for great results.
“It’s great to be able to earn and learn at the same time, which gives me the chance to buy tools and socialise with friends and family which is what you don’t get with a standard two-year college course.
“Not only has this allowed me to excel in my job, but the practical trade skills and principles I have honed with Sparshatt have allowed me to further myself further outside of the workshop too.”
The next wave of apprenticeships at Sparshatt Truck and Van will be recruited later this year.
