Halfords Autocentre Ashford - Autocare Technician Apprenticeship

Inspiro Learning; Ashford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive training service in the UK is offering an apprenticeship for Autocare Technicians. The role involves using diagnostic equipment, testing vehicle systems, and maintaining cleanliness. Candidates should have GCSEs in English and Maths, and some experience in the motor industry is preferred. The apprenticeship includes mentor support, a full toolkit, and opportunities for further training and career progression after completion. This is a full-time position with a structured learning environment.

Benefits

Block release training

Full toolkit, uniform, and work boots supplied

Mentorship during apprenticeship

Permanent role upon successful completion

Qualifications

• GCSE in English and Maths essential.
• Some motor industry experience preferred.
• Passion for the automotive industry required.

Responsibilities

• Use diagnostic tools for vehicle faults.
• Test parts and systems for proper operation.
• Maintain a clean work environment.

Skills

Logic and problem solving

Attention to detail

Customer service

Teamwork

Strong communication

Education

GCSE grades 9 – 4 (A – C) or equivalent in English and Maths

Tools

Diagnostic equipment

Halfords toolkit

Job description

The Service department is vital to the success of our business. From right first‑time fixes, to delivering excellent customer service, our Autocare Technicians/Mechanics play a pivotal role in delighting our customers and encouraging their continued loyalty.

Responsibilities

• Use of diagnostic equipment to identify vehicle faults.
• Testing of parts and systems to ensure correct working.
• Following checklists to ensure all critical parts of vehicles are examined.
• Carrying out bumper to bumper overview, service, and inspection.
• Maintenance of electronic systems including on‑board entertainment systems.
• Completion of legible and accurate paperwork for the customers and centres records.
• Maintenance of a clean and tidy work environment.

Training Provided

Training will be delivered using a combination of virtual classroom remote learning and face‑to‑face block release weeks at our state‑of‑the‑art training centre. Successful applicants are required to travel to a centrally located training facility to complete their apprenticeship training. All training‑related costs are fully covered as part of the programme, including travel, accommodation, and meals. In the workplace, your personal, dedicated mentor will support your continued learning as you apply the skills and knowledge you have gained through the remote sessions and the training centre. This is a fully rounded training experience where you will build life skills that last and gain both apprenticeship qualifications and brand certifications.

Qualifications Received

• Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard in Autocare Technician
• Certificate in Automotive Refrigerant Handling
• Level 2 qualification for safe isolation of electric and hybrid vehicles
• Brand specific certifications
• Progression towards Level 3 apprenticeship standard in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

Future Prospects

Once your apprenticeship is complete, you will continue your learning journey and you will have the opportunity to drive your career forward. Some of our apprentices have gone on to become team leaders and managers within the retail network.

Qualifications Required

• GCSE grades 9 – 4 (A – C) or equivalent in English and Maths.
• In Scotland, applicants must have Scottish National 5 Grades A - C or above in English and Maths.
• 'Equivalent' grades include BTEC first diplomas and certificates, OCR Nationals, Key Skills Level 2, NVQs, Essential Skills (Wales), Functional Skills Level 2, Core Skills (Scotland).

Personal Qualities

Our ideal candidate will demonstrate skills in logic and problem solving, pay attention to detail, and be committed to completing this apprenticeship programme. We are looking for people who have some experience in the motor industry either with formal training at Level 1 or having worked at or within a similar organisation. You should be passionate about our industry and our brand. Some of the personal skills that you should think about showing us in your application are: enthusiasm and willingness to learn, teamwork, strong communication, customer service, interest in vehicle engineering.

What We Offer

• Block release training
• A full Halfords toolkit, uniform and work boots supplied
• A mentor in your garage to support you through the apprenticeship
• A 40 hour working week if you are under 18 or 44 hours per week if you are over 18
• Permanent role upon successful completion of your apprenticeship
• Continued development and training opportunities with Hybrid/Electric Vehicle and MOT training

Things to Consider

As part of our commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion, all applications are automatically anonymised by our recruitment system. This is with the aim of realizing our ambition to have a workforce that is reflective of the community we serve and eliminating unconscious bias, allowing employees to be appointed based on their talent, skills, and experiences regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

English and Maths guidance from the government changed on 11/02/25. This employer wishes to support upskilling in both English and Maths by exception and as such the entry grade criteria as advertised still applies.

An assessment centre will be held at a local location, towards the end of January 2026 with work trial dates to then be confirmed following the assessment day. We reserve the right to close the advert early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. We therefore advise candidates to submit their applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.