Trainee technician John Brown at Border Cars in Carlisle is the first person in England to successfully achieve his apprenticeship on the new automotive industry apprenticeship framework.

Now, in National Apprenticeship Week, Brown's achievement has been marked by being awarded associate membership of the Institute of the Motor Industry.

The new apprenticeship framework was introduced in April 2012 in line with the Government’s request to improve the quality of apprenticeship provision across all sectors.

The framework was developed in consultation with the sector to ensure it met the needs of the industry.

Brown has achieved advanced level apprenticeship in vehicle maintenance and repair (light vehicle) in less than half the time of many of his peers due to the support given by his employer, training provider and the Suzuki apprenticeship training team.

Fraser Brown, general manager at Border Cars, said: "Apprenticeships are a valued part of our business as it allows us to ensure our future workforce has the skills and knowledge needed to work in our ever evolving industry.

"John is a valued member of the team here and we would like to congratulate him on his success."

With over 11,000 young people choosing to start an automotive apprenticeship, the latest official statistics show apprenticeships are playing a key role in lifting skill levels in the UK workforce and giving thousands of young people a successful start to their careers.

Brown received his certificate of achievement at a presentation attended by representatives from the IMI, training provider SPX and Suzuki.

As an IMI member, Brown will also have access to the industry’s Professional Register, which represents individuals who have proven they have the right qualifications and knowledge to practice professionally within the automotive sector.