Apprenticeship Central and School of Thought join forces to tackle skills gap

Apprenticeship Central and School of Thought have announced a new collaboration aimed at helping the automotive industry address one of its most pressing challenges: attracting and retaining the next generation of skilled workers.

The partnership brings together complementary areas of expertise. School of Thought focuses on raising awareness of automotive careers among school-aged students through direct engagement, including school visits and industry talks.

Apprenticeship Central, meanwhile, works with employers to convert that interest into real opportunities by recruiting, placing and supporting apprentices across the sector.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to the skills crisis,” said Eleanor Baker Barnes, commercial director at Apprenticeship Central. “We believe the only way to create real change is by combining awareness, access and action.

“School of Thought are doing valuable work at the awareness stage, and we’re pleased to align our expertise to support young people as they take the next step into employment.”

Dave Reece, founder of School of Thought, added: “We’ve always believed that early engagement is key – helping young people understand the breadth of careers available in the automotive industry.

“By collaborating with organisations like Apprenticeship Central, who focus on turning that interest into real opportunities, we’re closing the loop and helping young people build meaningful futures in this sector.”

The collaboration will initially focus on joint opportunities where both organisations are active, particularly in supporting the transition from school engagement to apprenticeship starts.

“Both teams say they are committed to sustainable, practical solutions that meet the needs of young people and industry employers alike.