ATS Euromaster has launched a new apprenticeship scheme to forge the next generation of technicians while simultaneously encouraging more young people to pursue careers in the vehicle maintenance industry.

The two‐year programme is in partnership with ProVQ, a specialist automotive training provider.

Eight teenagers aged between 16 and 19 have commenced the course and are the first to be gaining experience on the job, each aiming to become fully qualified technicians at the end of their training.

They are based at ATS Euromaster service centres across the country for practical vehicle maintenance training, and will also attend ProVQ’s National Automotive Training Centre in Shrewsbury for two‐week training blocks throughout the year for additional skills training.

On completion of the training, the apprentices will have the opportunity to pursue their career with ATS Euromaster.

Tim Hallatt, learning and development business partner for ATS Euromaster, said: “While the company already has an exceptional accredited training programme, this new scheme helps support school leavers directly enter the industry, prepares them for the world of work and brings the technicians and managers of the future into ATS Euromaster.”

The scheme, which is accredited by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), reinforces the commitment by ATS Euromaster to ensure its staff set the standard for the industry, exemplified by the firm’s numerous accolades and accreditations including ISO 9001 for quality and RoSPA Gold for safety.

A second intake of apprentices is scheduled for spring 2017, with 24 places available for young people looking to enter the industry.