AutoRaise Newsletter October 2024

I’m thrilled to welcome you to the very first edition of the AutoRaise Newsletter!

As the new Managing Director of AutoRaise, I’m incredibly excited to share with you the latest updates, insights, and stories from our journey to empower the next generation of automotive professionals. As well as our mission to reduce the skills gap in the vehicle repair industry, we’re also passionate about creating opportunities for young people, supporting businesses, and building a stronger, more sustainable future for our sector.

In this newsletter, you’ll find inspiring stories from our apprentices, updates on our latest partnerships, and insights into how your support is making a real difference. We’re committed to keeping you informed and engaged as we work together to shape the future of the automotive industry.

Thank you for being a part of the AutoRaise community. Together, we’re driving change, one apprenticeship at a time.

Emma Speed

Managing Director

Have Your Say: Help Us Shape the Future of Apprenticeships

At AutoRaise, we’re committed to addressing the skills gap in the automotive industry, and we believe that the best way to do this is by listening to the professionals who know the industry best - you! That’s why we’ve launched our Industry Survey, and we want to hear from you.

This short survey is your opportunity to share your insights and experiences.

Whether you currently employ apprentices or are thinking about bringing them on board, your feedback will help us understand the challenges you face, what kind of support you need, and how AutoRaise can better serve you and the industry.

By taking part, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping the future of apprenticeships in the automotive sector. Together, we can drive positive change and create more opportunities for young people to start their careers.

Complete our industry survey, and as a thank you, you’ll be entered into a draw to win a ￡50 Amazon voucher. Don't miss this chance to share your insights and grab a bonus reward!

Last month our Managing Director, Emma Speed, had the pleasure of visiting Emtec to see the educational initiatives and innovative work being done there to support the next generation of automotive professionals.

The partnership between Emtec, Gemini Accident Repair Centres, and Mac Tools is a shining example of how collaboration can elevate the learning experience for apprentices.

During her visit, Emma was presented with the AutoRaise tool box, designed as part of the MacNIFICENT Toolbox design competition. This unique competition challenges Gemini ARC apprentices to not only repair and paint toolboxes provided by Mac Tools but also to bring to life their unique tool box designs, blending technical skill with creativity.

Emma thoroughly enjoyed the visit; "It was fantastic to visit Emtec and see the great work they do with apprentices and see how a partnership with Mac Tools has benefitted their learning journey. The AutoRaise toolbox looks brilliant, and we will be using it to raise funds and awareness of the charity. AutoRaise aims to close skills gaps in the auto bodyshop industry, by working with large and small businesses to fill them with apprenticeships.”

AutoRaise is committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities and supporting educational initiatives that benefit both young people and the automotive sector. If you're interested in partnering with us to create more apprenticeship places, give back to the industry, and help build the future of auto repair, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can make a real difference.

Celebrating Success: Tommy Burn’s Apprenticeship Journey and the Power of the Apprenticeship Levy

AutoRaise is passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent in the automotive industry, so we’re excited to share a story that truly exemplifies the transformative power of apprenticeships and the versatile ways in which the Apprenticeship Levy can be utilised to benefit both apprentices and employers.

Tommy Burn’s Journey: A Shining Example of Levy Success

Tommy Burn, an apprentice who was supported through the Apprenticeship Levy by LV= General Insurance, which is part of Allianz, has just completed his course with flying colours, achieving a distinction! This outstanding achievement not only marks a significant milestone in Tommy’s career but also highlights how the Levy can be effectively used to support apprenticeships across various disciplines within the industry.

Tommy’s apprenticeship journey is particularly unique. While the automotive industry often focuses on technician roles, Tommy pursued a business administration apprenticeship—a crucial yet often overlooked side of the industry.

His role within UK Carbody, a single-site independent body shop, demonstrates that apprenticeships aren’t just for large groups or technical roles; they can also provide invaluable skills and opportunities in business-focused positions within smaller, independent businesses.

The Power of the Apprenticeship Levy

Tommy’s success story underscores the flexibility and potential of the Apprenticeship Levy. The Levy, which is often underutilised, can be transferred and app lied to apprenticeships in various roles, including those outside the traditional technician pathways. This is an important message for employers across the industry: the Levy can be a powerful tool for supporting interdisciplinary apprenticeships that are essential for the comprehensive growth of your business.

By using the Levy to fund Tommy’s apprenticeship, LV= General Insurance has not only invested in an individual’s future but has also contributed to the broader goal of diversifying and strengthening the skill sets within the automotive sector. This is a model that we at AutoRaise are eager to share with other employers, showcasing how strategic use of the Levy can open doors for a wide range of apprenticeships and benefit businesses of all sizes.

Well done Tommy, from everyone at AutoRaise!

Congratulations To Our Lucky Winner, Max!

In September, we ran a free prize draw to give away our amazing, custom-designed AutoRaise toolbox. We were thrilled to see such a great response from the community!

A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to enter and to those who helped spread the word. Your support means a lot to us, and together, we’re raising awareness for apprenticeships and creating opportunities for the next generation in the automotive industry.

What’s Your Story?

Do you have news, photos, or stories you’d love to share? We want to hear from you! Whether it's an apprentice success story, a workshop milestone, or an event you’ve been part of, your contributions help us showcase the amazing work happening in our community. Send in your highlights to [email protected] and share your news with us.