Profile: Tyneside Training Services Ltd, Newcastle upon Tyne

Apprenticeship: Vehicle Maintenance and Repair with the option to focus on one of two options- light (car) and heavy (trucks)

Length of study: A Level 2 Apprenticeship usually takes 2 years. On completion, learners have the option to study for a further year and gain a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

The programme: Learners across all areas spend one day per week in the training centre and four days a week on placement with a local garage

Study sessions: In the training centre learners do a mixture of practical and theory work split over 4 learning sessions in the day. This work goes towards the completion of an NVQ Portfolio. Apprentices also work towards achieving Key Skills awards, using the computer suite and sitting exams online.

Work placement: On placement, learners work alongside qualified Technicians carrying out work on customers’ cars. The level of this work is depends on individual progress and ability. Work placements are monitored by TTS staff, who carry out observations to gather evidence for each apprentice’s NVQ portfolio. This goes towards achieving their award.