Motor Vehicle students from Stratford-upon-Avon College are accelerating their learning by working at garages alongside their studies.
Multiple students are benefitting from working in industry alongside their training, which gives them extra opportunities to apply their learning practically.
Adam Cave, who is on the Level 2 Motor Vehicle course, began working at Alcester Auto Services towards the end of last year. He has always wanted to work with cars so the college course was perfect for him. He really enjoys college: “It’s a great environment which is fun and you learn a lot.” He chose to work alongside his training: “The two environments support each other well. Things I learn in college I can apply to my work and I get more practical experience which improves my learning.”
Billy Briggs, also studying Level 2 Motor Vehicle, is working at G&M Auto and has been for the past couple of years. He decided to undertake some work experience during lockdown and enjoyed it so much he stayed on to work and chose to study the Motor Vehicle course at college alongside. He likes the balance this brings: “I work two days at college and three days at work so it fits together nicely.”
Chloe Green grew up around cars with her uncle and grandad working in the Motor Industry. She has worked at WG Vehicle solutions during her Level 1 course and now Level 2. She hopes to continue on to do a Level 3: “I know the motor industry is where I want to be! Its different everyday which is great. Learning at the College is really enjoyable as it’s very supportive.”
Rory Ward from the same class is working at a Subaru specialist garage called Arden Bridge Services. He wanted to get a job alongside his studies and is aiming towards moving onto an apprenticeship -hoping ultimately to become a Rally Mechanic.
Jonathan Taylor, Motor Vehicle lecturer, details why working in industry can be beneficial: “Our learners that work part time in industry have a greater understanding of what an employer expects, their employability skills have improved as a result. Some of our Level 2 learners are planning to continue to study with us next year whilst continuing their employment. This means, they will be in a great position for full time employment or an apprenticeship after leaving college.”
Its great to see our students speeding towards bright futures!
