Following the success of our Light Vehicle apprenticeship programme producing high quality technicians to the local motor industry, Carlisle College is pleased to expand delivery to the haulage transport industry with the re-introduction of Heavy Vehicle Technician Apprenticeships at our City-centre campus from September 2025.
The well publicised shortage of HGV Drivers has contributed to an ever-going national shortage of HGV Technicians – a profession key to both the UK supply chain & economy and many businesses in Cumbria. This apprenticeship will allow employers to develop talent within their business, offer valuable career opportunities to local people, whist developing a workforce with the relevant skills and knowledge to enhance and sustain the sector; keep the UK’s supply chain moving.
Demand from local employers has outlined gaps in skills and training within Heavy Motor vehicle, with some sourcing training solutions out of area, as far Loughborough.
It’s extremely important to us as a college to continue evolving our curriculum and facilities to meet the skills needs within our region, so we are thrilled to announce the launch of this apprenticeship” said Sarah McGrath, Principal of Carlisle College.
The relaunch of the Heavy Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician apprenticeship comes with significant investment in facilities at Carlisle College, with NCG providing the capital required to install a fully equipped 8m HGV Inspection Pit into the motor vehicle workshop, ensuring apprentices have a learning experience replicative of the technology they are familiar with in the workplace.
Robert Jenkinson, Director at Cumbria-based A.W. Jenkinson Transport, one of the UK’s leading transport and logistics companies, said: “As a business that relies heavily on skilled technicians to keep our fleet running efficiently, we know how important it is to create opportunities for young people to enter the industry with the right training and support. We’re proud to support Carlisle College in relaunching the HGV Technician Apprenticeship and investing in local talent – it’s a big step towards securing the future of our sector.”
Employers from industry are invited to Carlisle College on Wednesday 21st May 2025 to discuss what they would like to see from this programme and find out more about the exciting developments taking place.
Please book your place via the link here or contact the apprenticeship team at Carlisle College on apprenticeships@carlisle.ac.uk.