Jaguar and Land Rover are offering apprenticeships to school leavers in an attempt to help them forge a career in its nationwide repair network.

Jaguar and Land Rover Technical Academy has joined forces with the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre at Thatcham in Berkshire to launch two new advanced apprenticeships in body repair and paint refinishing.

Jaguar and Land Rover already work closely with Thatcham to develop their vehicle body technologies.

The two manufacturers said the new apprenticeships will play an important role in its drive to develop the talent capable of repairing the Jaguars and Land Rovers of tomorrow.

The Technical Academy is initially looking to recruit around 50 youngsters a year over the next three years.

Apprentices on both courses will attend the Thatcham Apprentice Centre in four two week blocks each year. Apprentices will have access to the latest Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles as well as other manufacturers’ cars.

Students that successfully complete their courses – as 95% of Technical Academy apprentices do – will attain NVQ Levels 2 & 3 in vehicle body and paint operations, accredited by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), plus technical and key skills certificates. They will also have the opportunity to become ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation) accredited.

Students keen to register their interest in the programme and anyone wanting more information about the new apprenticeships should contact the Technical Academy hotline on 01926 648107.