The RAC is extending its mechanic apprenticeship scheme nationwide across England through a new partnership with Humberside Motor Trades Group Training Association (Motor Trades GTA) College. This collaboration, known as the ‘RAC Academy’, will now offer opportunities in the north of England, in addition to existing schemes in the south and west country.
Based in Hull, Motor Trades GTA College will mentor students through their Level 2 Vehicle Maintenance and Repair apprenticeship, incorporating practical roadside experience. The RAC will manage the application process, interview candidates, and provide on-the-job training. Students will be assigned dedicated mentors and managers from the RAC to oversee their progress and ensure they gain the necessary skills to become RAC patrols or RAC Mobile Mechanics.
The 30-month course involves three weeks a month working alongside a qualified RAC patrol at roadside and one week a month in the classroom. RAC patrols are trained in roadside repair and vehicle recovery, while RAC Mobile Mechanics service and repair vehicles at customers’ homes or workplaces. Since its inception in 2015, the RAC Academy has supported over 150 apprentices through partnerships with colleges in Bristol and London.
RAC Academy manager Tony Cullum stated that the new partnership with Motor Trades GTA College allows them to offer aspiring mechanics throughout England a pathway to an RAC career, whether as a roadside patrol or a mobile mechanic. He highlighted the choice and support apprentices receive to succeed. Cullum added that Motor Trades GTA’s experience in training motor trade apprentices will help address the industry skills gap and strengthen the academy.
Rachael Owen, business and marketing lead at Motor Trades GTA College, expressed excitement about partnering with the RAC Academy to deliver these apprenticeship programmes in the North of England, which she believes will positively expand their current provision and offer young people a route into the motor industry.
The RAC Academy has previously worked with Motor Trades GTA, North London Garages, and S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol, supporting a total of 11 apprentice groups.
Source: RAC