Luxury car manufacturer Bentley Motors is preparing its staff for the journey towards producing electric vehicles by enrolling 18 of its manufacturing technicians on electrical apprenticeships at City of Wolverhampton College.  

The college is delivering a three-year maintenance operations and engineering apprenticeship which will see participants from Bentley's site in Crewe attend block-release placements every six weeks at the new Advanced Technology and Automotive Centre, at the Wellington Road campus in Bilston. 

The programme - which follows the apprenticeship's electrical system and process control pathway - covers integrated electrical systems, preventative maintenance procedures and fault diagnosis and has been tailored to the company's technicians, with the bespoke delivery model developed to accommodate the business's needs. 

The first cohort of nine apprentices will start their training this month, with a further nine commencing the programme in April, and will combine working for the company with studying for a set of occupational standards supported by college tutors and apprenticeship assessors. 

In addition, the college is also providing polymer processing apprenticeship training for an additional four staff which will be delivered at the college's specialist Polymer Training and Innovation Centre in Telford.  

Daniel Degg, Head of business development and employer engagement at the college, said: “We are thrilled that Bentley - a leader in automotive luxury and sustainability - has chosen the college as a training provider on its journey towards electrification. 

"Apprenticeships play a vital role in equipping employees with the latest industry skills and knowledge, aligning perfectly with both Bentley’s vision for innovation and the college’s commitment to excellence in education and training.  

“This marks the beginning of an exciting partnership, and we look forward to working closely with Bentley to expand training and development opportunities, ensuring employees across a range of departments are equipped with the skills needed for the future." 

Employers interested in developing bespoke apprenticeships can find out more by emailing employerenquiries@wolvcoll.ac.uk or calling 01902 317541 

Get details of all apprenticeships offered by the college here