With over 75 years of history, here at JCT600, we are a motor retailer that has more than 50 dealerships across the North of England and is proud to say we have taken on almost 100 apprentices in the last four years alone.
As one of the most successful motor retailers in the UK, we’re always looking to welcome the next wave of ambitious and talented apprentices into the JCT600 family!
If you’re considering an apprenticeship at JCT600 and would like to learn more, we’re covering everything you need to know in this blog. So, grab a cuppa, settle down, and gain some insight into what life as an apprentice is like with us.
What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a paid position that offers you the opportunity to build your hands-on work experience whilst undertaking training and studies alongside. The apprenticeship is typically split as 20% for training and 80% for getting valuable experience in the workplace.
They’re aimed at people over the age of 16, who are either just starting out in their professional life, looking for a career change, or are looking to improve their skills in their current job. You’ll also need to have left full-time education.
At the end of your apprenticeship, there will be an assessment which leads to a nationally recognised qualification.
What Apprenticeships Are Available at JCT600?
People often associate apprenticeships with trades, like joinery, plumbing, or electrics. But there are apprenticeships available in a variety of industries, including the motor industry.
Our intake of apprentices each year always includes a large proportion of apprentice technicians, joining us to learn all about working on vehicles at one of our workshops.
They spend lots of time learning from highly skilled colleagues who have been doing the job for years, as well as enjoying a bespoke training programme created by our partner brands, such as Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
We also offer other apprenticeships too, in roles that are customer-facing, like sales and service advice. The structure is the same, with some training and lots of hands-on experience, making it a great way to learn a job quickly and effectively.
The length of the apprenticeship depends on which area you want to work in. Motor Vehicle Apprenticeships, such as a Technician Apprenticeship, have a 3-year duration, whereas Apprentice Parts Advisors and Apprentice Service Advisors can complete their course within 12 to 18 months.
There are apprenticeships available in our central teams too, such as Accounting or Marketing. If that’s an area that interests you, keep an eye out for any opportunities that arise!
The qualification
There are currently two qualifications that can be completed at JCT600, these include a Level 3 Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle) and Level 2 Customer Service.
What are the entry requirements for a JCT600 apprenticeship?
All Apprenticeships require a GCSE, or equivalent, 9-4 (A-C) in English and Maths subjects. To take part in a Motor Vehicle Technician Apprenticeship, a Science subject is also required.
What happens at the end of the apprenticeship?
All apprentices are guaranteed a role at JCT600 when they successfully qualify. Throughout the apprenticeship, we can also provide extra support to those who may struggle to complete their qualification.
At JCT600, we are committed to helping all apprentices succeed in their chosen career so should someone fail to qualify, they will be offered the opportunity to resit their final exam.
In the event an apprentice fails their course but shows a good work ethic and a positive attitude, we will try to find them a suitable vacancy within JCT600.
How Many Apprentices Does JCT600 Take on?
In 2023 alone, we welcomed 41 apprentices to the business. We really value our intake of apprentices each year, and we pride ourselves on making sure they get the best support, training, and opportunities possible.
As part of our work with the Automotive 30% Club, we’re committed to increasing female representation at all levels of the motor industry and have had many female apprentices join us at JCT600 in the past few years.
What Does an Apprenticeship at JCT600 Involve?
Our apprentices are split across a number of our brands, including Aston Martin, Porsche, and Audi. That means every apprentice will develop in their own way and come away with their own experience. Plus, every apprentice is supported by our experienced team of managers, as well as their dedicated mentor and a Brand Assessor Coach.
To ensure our apprentices get the level of development they need, we even have a specialist Apprentice Support Coordinator! It’s their job to organise regular meetings to make sure everyone feels settled and is making good progress.
Extra support is available to any apprentice who needs it, and there are even Parents Evening-style events where parents and family members can be part of the journey too.
How do You Apply For an Apprenticeship at JCT600?
If you’re looking to apply for an apprenticeship at JCT600, the best place to start is our Careers page. You’ll be able to see all the apprenticeships available right now, and applying for one is just a case of a few clicks.
Still have questions about our apprenticeships? Get in touch or keep an eye on our blog where we post regular updates with industry-related topics.