Bridgestone supporting National Tyres’ next generation of apprentices

Bridgestone has donated a number of ‘tyre toolbags’ to help a number of talented automotive apprentices progress as part of National Tyres and Autocare’s ‘Foundation Modern Apprentice’ scheme, which includes NVQ level two training courses. Bridgestone’s support comes in the form of a branded hold-all for each learner containing a wide range of equipment to assist in both the classroom and in branch.

National’s group training and development manager, Graham Atkinson said: “The tyre tool bags contain many of the tools that will be essential for our new apprentices including Bridgestone branded merchandise, stationery and extensive product and technical information. They are ideal for the apprentices and add yet another layer to National’s all-round training provision, which is already reaping rewards across the network.”

Atkinson said that National’s investment in shaping trainees’ progress is already reaping dividends, as many of the apprentices go on to progress into branch management, some moving into operational management roles. Eighteen apprentices receive vocational training for two years, before qualifying and taking up a permanent position at one of National’s 225 branches across the UK.

In addition, National is also offering a further 10 hand-picked candidates the chance to receive a bespoke vocational training course to help them achieve their career aspirations, who might not otherwise have the academic qualifications to become an NVQ level apprentice.

He added: “At National we recognise the importance of developing our own staff and providing comprehensive training to those who are new to the industry. With our apprentices, we always see an extremely strong work ethic coupled with tremendous enthusiasm to learn. They represent the future and we can’t stress highly enough how important our apprentice programme is for the business as a whole.”

Bridgestone’s training development manager Mark Fereday said: “We have always had a close working relationship with National and when we looked into their apprentice programme, we were keen to help out.

“The bags we have provided are ideal as a starting point for their new recruits as they make their way into the industry. The idea is to give them something that has longevity and can be used for many months and years after they earn their qualifications.

“The initial feedback has been really encouraging. It is lovely to be associated with youngsters like this, who will hopefully go on to forge lasting careers in the industry, with a strong affinity for the Bridgestone brand as a result.”