New Websites Spearhead Jaguar Land Rover Apprentice Recruitment Drive

GAYDON – July 25, 2008: Jaguar Land Rover has launched dedicated apprentice websites to help its dealer network recruit a record number of apprentices in 2008/2009.

Jointly, the two iconic British motoring brands already operate one of the largest and most successful apprentice programmes in the UK automotive retail sector. Over the past decade Jaguar Land Rover's Technical Academy has coached over 1,000 youngsters through its advanced apprenticeship programme, with 95% of participants attaining an NVQ Level 3 in their chosen discipline.

In May, the Academy became one of the first training providers in the UK to be awarded the new Training Quality Standard certification by the Learning & Skills Council.

For this year's autumn intake, Jaguar Land Rover is looking to recruit 200 youngsters aged 16-plus to satisfy growing demand from their dealers for bright, young talent to help with the continued development of the brands at a time of unprecedented new product investment.

Five apprenticeship disciplines are on offer for 2008, comprising three technical courses in vehicle servicing, body repair and paint refinishing, plus non-technical parts advisor and effective communicator courses, which combine product knowledge and business skills. The Technical Academy is also pioneering a Young Apprentice programme offering pupils in Years 10 & 11, the opportunity to acquire a Level 2 VRQ in Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair (equivalent to five GCSEs Grades A*-C).

Youngsters considering a career in the motor industry can find everything they need to know about Jaguar and Land Rover apprenticeships at the new websites, www.jaguarapprenticeships.com and www.landroverapprenticeships.com, along with details on the product range and the history of each brand. Applications to join the programme are also made online.

All courses offer industry-standard qualifications and a host of unique additional benefits. These start with an intense induction schedule that includes an off-road adventure and culminate in the final year of studies with a trip to the African bush or South American rainforest to participate in a community project as part of Jaguar Land Rover's Apprentices are MAD (Making a Difference) initiative. This year’s participants have already converted and handed over a special Land Rover ambulance in Tanzania and constructed a community kitchen in a small village in the foothills of Machu Pichu in Peru. Further details of these and previous MAD Adventures can also be found on the new websites.