My Apprenticeship Story by Sophie Bailey

From Transformer Toys and old Land Rovers to Luxury Sports Cars

My affection for the automotive industry started when I was a little girl. I was obsessed with transformers, and particularly the ‘Starscream’ Decepticon transformer toy, but as I got older I found my love for old Land Rovers and the British car industry grew, and I suppose that’s why I considered the automotive sector as a career for me.  

When I applied to work for JCT600 Aston Martin, I actually applied to be a Parts Apprentice but my (now) manager found my social media channels, where I posted content about restoring old Land Rovers. I very much wanted to be in the workshop to begin with but unfortunately there wasn’t a position at the Aston Martin dealership at that time, so I didn’t pursue the technical route. I really enjoyed my first role, but I never felt ‘settled’. Luckily for me, a vehicle technician apprenticeship came up, I applied, and the rest is history!

At school I enjoyed anything where I could be creative, as I felt it really allowed me to express myself, because I’m a quiet person and I find that social media helps my creativity and allows me to tell my story to others to hopefully inspire other young people to achieve their dreams.

Once I’ve completed my apprenticeship, I will receive a Level 3 in Light Vehicle Service and Maintenance standard certificate, Level 3 F-Gas Handling certificate, Level 3 Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replace certificate at the end of my 3 year apprenticeship, and towards the end of my apprenticeship I will have the opportunity to go to the Aston Martin training centre in Wales to complete my Green Level Technician Aston Martin Training.

I love learning and absorbing as much as I possibly can, and being an apprentice gives me the opportunity to do this and I have the chance to build a really good knowledge base.

I encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship to give it a go! Whether you are male or female, if you have the drive and determination you could do absolutely anything you put your mind to. The only thing holding you back from being the best you can be is yourself. And, it’s never too late to become an apprentice. I was 22 when I decided to ‘brave it’ and follow my heart. Jump in and give it a go!