Fix Auto UK Launches Its ‘Class of 2026’ Apprentice Programme

As National Apprenticeship Week draws to a close, Fix Auto UK is using the hugely successful platform to launch its ‘Class of 2026’ Apprentice Programme, reinforcing its long-term commitment to developing the next generation of skilled vehicle repair professionals and those who support the repair process.

Delivered in partnership with Apprenticeship Central, the organisation that oversees the recruitment and subsequently management and support for apprentices, the programme will welcome a new cohort of aspiring young people covering a wide variety of roles into Fix Auto UK repair centres across the country. The scheme offers hands-on training, industry-recognised qualifications and clearly defined career pathways within Fix Auto UK and its Franchise Partners.

In 2025, 29 Fix Auto UK repairers utilised the inaugural initiative with Apprenticeship Central, resulting in 52 apprentices stepping into the industry – the single largest intake experienced by the Group. The intake spanned a various career pathways from technical MET, spray painters and panel technicians to customer care advisors, finance and accounts.

The programme is not designed to address short-term skills gaps; rather, the Group is investing in our future leaders — the next generation of body shop managers, Franchise Partners and perhaps even future CEOs. By combining hands-on learning with invaluable industry insight and experience, Fix Auto UK apprentices can earn while they learn, gaining both technical expertise and a broad understanding of how the industry operates beyond their own repair centre. Alongside one-to-one mentoring from highly experienced teams, the approach is focused on equipping apprentices for exceptional careers and long-term progression.

Commenting on the development, Ian Pugh, Managing Director for the Advantage Group of Companies, of which Fix Auto UK is part of, said: “The Class of 2026 Apprentice Programme reflects our continued commitment to investing in people and supporting the future of our industry. National Apprenticeship Week provides an important opportunity and the ideal platform for us to champion our sector and highlight the exciting career opportunities available to ambitious young people.

“I speak from personal experience, having started my own career as an apprentice on the then Youth Training Scheme. With the support, guidance and mentoring I received, I have enjoyed a varied and rewarding career. It is now incumbent on leaders across our sector to provide those same opportunities for the next generation.”

National Apprenticeship Week provides a platform to showcase the positive impact of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses and communities. Fix Auto UK’s Class of 2026 Apprentice Programme demonstrates the network’s ongoing investment in skills development, local employment and the future resilience of the automotive repair sector.”