Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Vehicle Apprenticeships

Do you have an interest in vehicles and a passion for the automotive industry?

Total People is a certified provider for Commercial Vehicle apprenticeships in the UK, with over 30 years of experience in the field. 

With around 5.3 million commercial vehicles currently in operation in the UK alone, this industry has many opportunities for career growth.

Are you keen on entering this industry?

Read on to discover why you should do a commercial vehicle apprenticeship with us.

What is the commercial vehicle industry?

The commercial vehicle industry in the UK refers to the sector that deals with the design, manufacturing, distribution, and maintenance of vehicles in the commercial industry.

Often these vehicles are used for transporting goods or passengers, including providing specialised services to businesses.

The commercial vehicle industry encompasses a wide range of vehicles, including:

• Commercial trucks/lorries
• Buses/Coaches
• Vans
• Specialised vehicles i.e., ambulances

What are commercial vehicle apprenticeships?

Commercial vehicle apprenticeships, also known as motor vehicle apprenticeships or vehicle technician apprenticeships, and are training programmes in the UK designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in the commercial vehicle industry. 

These apprenticeships offer a combination of practical on-the-job training and classroom-based learning, allowing you to gain valuable skills and knowledge required to work with commercial vehicles.

During the apprenticeship, you will work under the guidance of experienced professionals, allowing you to develop hands-on expertise with commercial vehicles. 

What do you learn during commercial vehicle apprenticeships?

During a commercial vehicle apprenticeship, also referred to as a heavy vehicle apprenticeship, apprentices gain skills and knowledge in various aspects of maintaining and serving commercial vehicles. 

During the course, apprentices learn:

• How to diagnose vehicle issues
• How to carry out repairs
• How to conduct routine maintenance tasks
• How to handle vehicle technology and electronics
• Health and safety regulations
• Customer service skills
• Various aspects of understanding vehicle parts 

Why do a commercial vehicle apprenticeship?

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship course, apprentices gain industry-recognised qualifications over 36 months, plus an assessment towards the end of the apprenticeship.  and   This opens numerous doors of career opportunities in the field.  

What careers can a commercial vehicle apprenticeship programme lead to?

Some potential careers that apprentices can pursue after completing the programme include:

Commercial vehicle technician

As a qualified commercial vehicle technician, you will be responsible for diagnosing and repairing issues with commercial vehicles, conducting routine maintenance, and ensuring they are in optimal working condition.

Fleet maintenance technician

In this role, you may work for companies that own and operate a fleet of commercial vehicles. Your responsibilities will include maintaining and servicing the fleet to keep it running efficiently.

Vehicle parts specialist

You can become an expert in commercial vehicle parts. Your role would involve assisting customers, identifying the right parts and managing stock.

Workshop supervisor/manager

With experience and additional training, you could progress to a supervisor or manager overseeing the operations of a commercial vehicle workshop.

Technical support specialist

Some apprentices may move into technical support roles, providing assistance and advice to colleagues/customers on various vehicle issues.

Vehicle inspector

You might choose a career as a vehicle inspector, where you inspect commercial vehicles for safety and compliance with regulations.

Service advisor

Service advisors work closely with customers, assisting them with vehicle maintenance schedules, bookings, and explaining repair options.

Commercial vehicle sales

If you have good communication and customer service skills, you could pursue a career in commercial vehicle sales, selling vehicles to businesses and fleet operators.

Roadside assistance technician

Some apprentices may work for breakdown and recovery companies, providing roadside assistance to commercial vehicle operators.

Specialised vehicle technician

With further training, you could specialise in specific types of commercial vehicles, such as buses, trucks, or emergency vehicles.

What are the entry requirements for a commercial vehicle apprenticeship?

Although entry requirements may vary, typically, apprentices are required to have a GCSE or equivalent in English and a GCSE or equivalent in Mathematics.

Additionally, apprentices should possess some of the following traits:

• An enthusiasm for vehicles and a passion for the automotive industry
• Eagerness to work with commercial vehicles
• An interest in understanding how commercial vehicles operate
• Positive attitude towards problem-solving
• Attention to detail when inspecting vehicles
• Good communication skills
• A commitment to health and safety is a must
• A strong work ethic 
• A willingness to adapt to new technologies and industry advancements is crucial

Don’t worry if you don’t possess all the traits listed above! The commercial vehicle apprenticeship will support you to develop the functional skills needed to become a competent vehicle mechanic, you just need a willingness to learn and an interest in the industry!

What are the commercial vehicle apprenticeship wages?

Apprenticeship wages typically start at around £12,000 during the first year, however, this can vary depending on the employer. Check out our apprenticeship paths to discover the range of employability opportunities for apprentices. 

Why choose Total People for commercial vehicle Apprenticeships?

Did you know? 

At Total People, we have over 20 years of experience delivering apprenticeships to provide the workforce with the skills and knowledge they need to enter their desired industry.. 

Our expert tutors can give you the skills, knowledge and experience you need to enter the commercial vehicles industry and achieve your career goals. 

We are one of the largest apprenticeship providers in the Northwest of England, so we have plenty of resources that can benefit you on your apprenticeship journey!

Ready to start your career in commercial vehicles?

Check out our vacancies page to see what is available for you!