Inspiring A New Generation: Mercedes-Benz Apprentice Academy Thrives

Demand for apprentice places continues to rise, with a 30 per cent increase in vacancies in 2012, when 159 apprentices joined the Mercedes-Benz Apprentice Programme – selected from a total of 11,500 applications.

The Programme, now in its 18th year, provides investment and is dedicated to inspire and equip the next generation of young engineering technicians and advisors with the skills required to work with and on modern, highly advanced vehicles.

Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK commented: “We are delighted that the Apprentice Programme has been recognised by Ofsted in this way and that Mercedes-Benz is helping talented young people to find their vocation.

“The Mercedes-Benz brand makes a huge contribution to the UK’s economic, engineering, technology, business and cultural landscape, and secures UK-wide employment across a range of disciplines, including youth development through our apprenticeship scheme.”

The Apprentice Academy is just one exciting part of a thriving and highly innovative network of Mercedes-Benz businesses in close proximity to its Milton Keynes headquarters - from Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth, responsible for designing and building the engines powering Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg at the Australian Grand Prix this weekend to MERCEDES AMG Petronas Formula One in Brackley, where the team is based.

Those joining the Apprentice Academy start a three-year programme – at the end of which they will aim to achieve Level Three nationally-recognised VCQ and VRQ qualifications.

Since the programme began, 1,164 apprentices have graduated from The Apprentice Academy with 60 per cent remaining at Mercedes-Benz 10 years on.

The Programme is supported by a £2.1 million investment in a new facility in which to house The Apprentice Academy.