Autocare Technician (Apprenticeship)

The Auto-care Technician has to demonstrate expertise not only in the technical elements of their role and have a good grasp of the practical and theoretical aspects of the vehicle systems they service, but also needs to have excellent telephone, customer handling (including how to handle difficult customers and deal with customer disappointment) and effective sales skills, as well as strong problem solving and self-organisation skills. They must be able to work as part of a team but also operate independently, understand how their centre operates from a commercial perspective and how their actions contribute to business results, whilst maintaining a high standard of workmanship.

Please Note: This Standard does not on its own qualify apprentices to work on air-conditioning systems. Employers who require apprentices to work on air-conditioning systems must also provide the F-Gas qualification.

An apprenticeship is a genuine job and under all circumstances an apprentice will be employed from day one. Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, living in England and have no upper age limit. Any vacancies will clearly state what the entry requirements are for the job role being advertised. There will be different entry requirements depending on the company and role.

A minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 3/D or above, including maths and English are recommended for this apprenticeship. Individuals without level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and maths prior to taking the end-point assessment.

Any vacancies will clearly state what the entry requirements are for the job role being advertised. There will be different entry requirements depending on the company and role. An interest in vehicle maintenance would be beneficial.

Apprenticeship Standard: ST0499 Autocare Technician

This apprenticeship provides an ideal entry into the occupation and supports progression within the sector.

Through their apprenticeship, apprentices gain the technical knowledge, practical experience and wider skills they need for their job and career. Apprentices will have their skills, knowledge and behaviours evaluated at the end of their apprenticeship by taking an end-point assessment (EPA). This is known as synoptic assessment. Individuals without level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and maths prior to taking the end-point assessment.

The apprentice is expected to study through a mix of learning in the workplace, formal off-the-job training and the opportunity to practise new skills in a real work environment. The time spent on off-the-job training should be at least 20% and should be included as part of working hours. The employer must allow time to complete the apprenticeship within the working hours, however, some homework may be set by College Tutors or Development Coaches.

This is a work-based programme and is studied as part of an apprenticeship.

If you are between the ages of 16 and 24, you will not have to fund your own tuition, it is your employer and the government who cover the fees. If you are over 25, you may be asked to contribute towards the cost of your training, but it depends on your employer. If you do have to contribute to the cost of training, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

The cost of training an apprentice is dependent on their age and whether or not the business pays the Apprenticeship Levy. There are a range of different grants and incentives available to employers. Contact us for up-to-date information and advice on the funding support available.