The present educational yr noticed a big rise in folks beginning automotive apprenticeships, in accordance with findings by the trade’s skilled physique, the IMI.

With the best variety of new enrolments since earlier than the COVID-19 pandemic, begins have seen a 9% rise in comparison with the 2022-23 educational yr.

“This uplift signifies a renewed curiosity in each the automotive sector usually and apprenticeships as an entry route, each of that are vital to construct the expertise pipeline for the long run,” mentioned Emma Carrigy, IMI analysis supervisor.

“Our new evaluation suggests automotive is gaining a broader attraction, probably fuelled by the superior applied sciences which are changing into extra commonplace resembling ADAS and electrical automobiles,” mentioned Carrigy.

“And what’s significantly fascinating is that there was a pronounced uplift in intermediate-level apprenticeships which can replicate a rising demand for foundational expertise and entry-level {qualifications}, probably serving as a gateway to extra superior coaching or responding to present job market wants.”

The IMI knowledge additionally reveals a considerable rise within the variety of under-19s starting automotive apprenticeships. That is the youngest cohort on this discipline for the primary quarter up to now six years reflecting concerted outreach efforts to youthful folks.

The recognition of particular pathways inside automotive apprenticeships has additionally been notable. The ‘Motor Car Service and Upkeep Technician (Mild Car)’ pathway emerged as the preferred alternative within the first quarter of the 2023/24 educational yr, with 1,500 begins.

The ‘Autocare Technician’ pathway additionally skilled a big 38% enhance from the earlier yr, representing 28% of all automotive apprenticeship begins.

The IMI mentioned these developments may very well be indicative of particular trade wants or a rising curiosity amongst apprentices in these areas, probably pushed by perceived job alternatives or the dynamic nature of automotive expertise and servicing.

“In comparison with different industries, automotive has the tenth highest proportion enhance, which is extremely excellent news for a sector that has a big expertise hole to fill,” added Carrigy. “And with Below 19s accounting for 64% of apprenticeship begins, there may be a lot to be inspired by to construct the expertise pipeline.”

There have been 3,700 automotive apprenticeship begins within the first 3 months (Aug to Oct) of the tutorial yr 2023/24 which is 9% increased than the identical time the earlier yr. That is the best first-quarter efficiency for the reason that educational yr 2019/20.