The Get into Cars programme helps young people pursue their passion for the automotive industry by offering them the opportunity to have a fulfilling career at Arnold Clark. We recently celebrated thirteen Prince’s Trust students who’ve successfully completed an intensive six-week skills development programme.
Over the six weeks, students gained an in-depth understanding of the car industry, enhanced their mechanical skills and enjoyed invaluable workplace experience. Some of the disciplines students learnt were basic car maintenance, tyre fitting and welding. These are crucial skills that will help them with their career development.
Suzanne Sherry, Arnold Clark Early Careers Recruitment Manager, said: ‘This is one of my favourite programmes of the whole year. It’s such an amazing opportunity for some young people who maybe would never have had the opportunity to do something like this before. It is a real second chance for them.’
All the successful candidates were invited to GTG Glasgow, one of Arnold Clark’s cutting-edge training centres, for an awards ceremony. Louise Goodlad, Senior Head of Partnerships for the Prince's Trust, hosted the event. She said: ‘We are delighted that this is the eleventh year that we’ve worked with Arnold Clark. It’s a great partnership. We couldn’t run these courses without the commitment and dedication of the team here at GTG and right across Arnold Clark.’
Matthew Docherty, who took part in last year’s Get into Cars programme, spoke at the event. He congratulated all the students and encouraged everyone to continue working hard. Matthew is just moving into his second year of his apprenticeship, which he said has been a great experience.
There was also a Q&A with two of the students, Elizabeth Lewis and George Wilson. Elizabeth said that she ‘enjoyed the full programme. It has been a great experience in the workshop and to meet new people who love working with cars.’ George also enjoyed attending GTG, he feels that ‘becoming an apprentice would benefit [him] a lot as it is not just a job, it is a career.’
Arnold Clark Chief Executive and Group Managing Director Manager Eddie Hawthorne presented each graduate with their certificate and toolbox. Eddie also surprised the graduates when he announced that all thirteen students have successfully been employed as Arnold Clark apprentices.
Eddie said: ‘This graduation ceremony is testament to the hard work and dedication you have shown in gaining this qualification. Today is about celebrating your fantastic achievement with your family, friends and each other. I hope that for our 2019 graduates, this graduation event marks the beginning of a bright and fulfilling future with Arnold Clark.’
The new apprentices are the first intake for 2019. Arnold Clark will take on over 400 apprentices this year. The apprentices from the Get into Cars programme will all be placed at their local Arnold Clark for the next three years. All the apprentices will continue to develop their mechanical knowledge and skills with the opportunity to become fully qualified mechanics.