Protyre expands apprentice scheme after successful start

Protyre, the retail arm of Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd, is expanding its new scheme following the early success of a trial intake.

Protyre, the retail arm of Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd, is expanding its new scheme following the early success of a trial intake.

The national tyre retailer took on its first nine apprentices in February and plans to roll it out across its entire network of more than 70 centres.

Duncan Wilkes, CEO of Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd, said: “The new truck technician programme is something we are very proud to introduce as there’s a big demand for high quality truck fitters.

An additional 22 apprentices are now being sought to begin training at various Protyre centres throughout the UK. From this intake, 10 will complete an industry first truck technician apprenticeship programme.

Wilkes said the scheme “exemplified” the company’s commitment to ensure quality customer care and technical expertise. “I have a firm belief that by investing in developing the next generation of technicians today, Protyre will be best placed to meet the needs of customers tomorrow and remain the local garage they can trust,” he added. 

The Protyre apprentice scheme has been developed in conjunction with ProVQ, a leading provider of training programmes for the UK motor industry. The two-year programme combines practical on-the-job experience with intensive training weeks at the state-of-the-art ProVQ facilities in Shropshire.

Future talent

Brandon Jones, 17, who is currently based at Protyre Bristol, praised the scheme for giving him the opportunity to develop new skills. 

He said: “I chose to do an apprenticeship because I just felt it was the best option for my future and I get to earn a salary while I learn on the job. I have always enjoyed being around cars and have wanted a career in fixing vehicles in the motor trade and luckily I got the opportunity to do this through ProVQ and Protyre.

“The training we do covers a wide range of things, such as fitment of tyres, alignments of vehicles, the braking system, suspension and I have also learnt about health & safety in the work place. But that’s not all. We’re also leaning about teamwork and how to provide the best possible service for customers. Protyre is an extremely customer focused garage.  

He added: “It is hard work, but I know this programme is the best thing for my career. One day I’d love to manage my own Protyre centre. Without doubt I have chosen the right company to further my career in.”

On completion of their training, the apprentices will receive an NVQ Level 2 in Vehicle Fitting and the opportunity to develop a full time career as a motor technician.

World leader

Nick Boles, MP Minister for Skills and Equalities, is pushing for England’s apprenticeship programme to be the “best in the world” by focusing on the fundamental skills that are required in the workforce. 

He said:  “I want to continue to build on this momentum and enthusiasm, with more employers recognising the benefits of apprenticeships, getting involved in designing standards, testing our new funding approaches and employing apprentices. This will help young people’s skills, our businesses and the wider economy to continue to grow.”

“The scheme exemplifies our commitment both to our customers and our people, it offers a clear career path, a valuable qualification and the prospect of a full time role within one of the UKs largest tyre and service networks upon completion.”

 

Mary.Isokariari

Learn More →

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *