Top apprentices in each year group are honoured
FIVE apprentices have been rewarded for their endeavours on the College of Further Education’s light vehicle technician course.
The prizes, sponsored by the Guernsey Motor Trade Association, are awarded annually to the most improved apprentice of each year group with the winners receiving a trophy and a £100 tool voucher.
‘We want to acknowledge their achievements,’ said course leader Ian Tulie.
The course spans four years and sees the apprentices, who are already working in the motor trade, come into the college once a week to be given specific training around the various components of a car.
Upon completion, the mechanics receive an Institute of the Motor Industry level 3 diploma in light vehicle maintenance and repair, which is well respected in the industry and provides further opportunities for career progression.
Fourth year trophy winner Ethan Tonks had previously worked on commercial vehicles with the States before a recent move to Guernsey Mobility.
He said that the scheme has nurtured his lifetime passion of motors and allowed him to broaden his skill set for his career. He is looking to stay as a mechanic for the foreseeable future.
‘Anything with wheels,’ he said.
After studying business for two years, second year trophy winner Curtis Davey followed in his dad’s footsteps and joined the industry to work on engines.
He said that the knowledge gained by working with the experienced tutors is second to none and that they are always on hand with solutions to any problems.
‘There’s not much they don’t know,’ he said.
Recent funding through the States’ capital bid funding process has allowed the college to purchase new equipment so the apprentices can gain familiarity with modern technology.
These include brake testing, an advanced driver assist system and there is now the opportunity to train mechanics for MOT checks.
‘We’re gearing the apprentices up for the future,’ said director of apprenticeships Chris Torode.
A recovery from a drop in numbers after Covid has seen the course become more popular and this year the college is at full capacity for first years.
The team is looking to build on its growth to increase available places and keep producing qualified mechanics for an industry where demand is high.
