In preparation for the upcoming National Apprenticeship Week 2020 (3 to 9 February), we recently had some fun and frolics in our Oxford workshop.

Presenters Trevor Marshall, Rich Smith and the team from local radio station, Jack FM were invited into our workshop to try their hand at a few cycle maintenance skills…… despite being under the careful and watchful of eye of level 3 apprentice, Sam Jones from local bike shop AW Cycles it can safely be said they weren’t very good.

When we mentioned doing a lower leg service, I think the Jack FM team had in mind some kind of relaxing spa treatment and/or massage! Think again, Jack.

All the action was recorded and will be rolled out during National Apprenticeship Week next month so keep a look out on our social media channels.

Our cycle maintenance apprenticeships are work-based training programmes for both, new or existing bike mechanics designed around the needs of the cycle trade that lead to nationally recognised qualifications, such as NVQ’s and Cytech certification (NB. our apprenticeships are the only schemes available that include Cytech as part of the training).

We offer two cycle maintenance apprenticeships – an intermediate (Level 2) and an advanced (Level 3). Our most popular apprenticeship is the Level 2 – this is a 12 month programme during which the apprentice will attain:

  • Cytech technical two training (including wheel building) and qualification
  • Certificate of Cycle Maintenance (often referred to as a Technical Certificate, this is the specific, hands on training in Cycle Maintenance)
  • NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Maintenance & Installation – Cycles pathway
  • Functional skills level 1 or 2.
  • Employment Responsibilities and Rights
  • Personal Learning & Thinking Skills

To become an apprentice, you need to be living and working in England (contracted for at least 30 hours per week), be over school leaving age and not in full-time education. Our customer services team can advise and assist you in all aspects of the registration process including recruitment, if necessary.

Employers seeking to use the apprenticeship scheme – either to recruit a new member of staff or to upskill existing staff – should also contact our knowledgeable and friendly team who will be able to advise and assist in all aspects of the on-boarding process of an apprentice, including available funding, additional costs and help with recruitment.

We are experts in securing funding to train apprentices. The training costs are heavily subsidised by funding from the government, together with, where applicable, an employer contribution. As your Training Provider, we will give you guidance on the funding available, which varies depending on the age and previous work experience of the employee and the size of your business or organisation.