Transport Training Services has more than exceeded its recruitment targets in 2018 by recruiting and job-matching 120 young apprentices over the past 12 months.
This figure represents a threefold increase since 2015 and brings the total number of apprentices training at TTS to over 250. All new recruits are employed apprentices under the ApprenticeshipsNI programme, working in a variety of exciting and challenging job roles within the transport and motor industries.
TTS offers applicants and local businesses a range of apprenticeships to meet their recruitment and training needs as well as offering exciting career paths for school leavers and young adults. The TTS portfolio includes Light Vehicle Repair, Heavy Vehicle Repair, Auto Electrical Repair, Motorcycle Repair, Fast Fit, Body Repair, Vehicle Refinishing, MET, Parts Advisor and Service Advisor. Conveniently and centrally located at Nutts Corner, all TTS apprentices work towards a Level 3 apprenticeship framework in their chosen area. The training at TTS is a blend of workshop, e-learning and classroom activities and is mainly delivered on a block-release basis, in line with all manufacturer apprenticeships.
Recruitment to the Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair apprenticeship in 2018 has been particularly pleasing. A total of 56 new apprentices have signed up to 16 local employers. This represents a significant investment of young talent into the trade.
TTS firmly believe that a similar intake in 2019 and 2020 will contribute significantly to addressing the challenge of skills shortage in that sector.
“Supported by Transport Training Board, the registered charity that own TTS, we’re just about to invest over £100k in resources to help ensure we meet the skills needs of local motor businesses,” explained CEO of TTS Martin Hutchinson.
More than two-thirds of the new heavy vehicle apprentice technicians are with the main manufacturers in the sector – Volvo, Iveco, DAF, Scania and Renault – with the remainder employed by smaller independent operators.
Martin is optimistic about this year’s level of employer engagement with TTS adding: “I would encourage employers to visit TTS in Nutts Corner to see our professional training facilities and find out more about what we do, as well as discuss their recruitment needs and how we can help them recruit suitable apprentices. We can support employers in a variety of different ways including help with advertising vacancies, short-listing, work trials, interviewing and assessment.”
