Bridgend Motor Group proves to be a driving force for apprenticeships
Ayrshire firm Bridgend Motor Group, a used car and van retailer, approached Skills Development Scotland (SDS) Employer Engagement Executive Nicola McCormack in October 2025 for a Skills for Growth review to help guide future business development.
Skills for Growth is a fully-funded service from SDS for companies with between five and 250 employees and helps employers identify and understand their skills needs. A detailed Employer Action Plan is developed with guidance towards the most relevant training, funding and local business support which is based on their identified skills needs.
The review focused on strengthening team culture, improving recruitment and retention, establishing a formal succession plan, and advancing individual career development to align with overall business objectives. It also prioritised raising skills levels across the organisation, including through the development of apprenticeship pathways.
It was clear during the skills review that Bridgend Motor Group invest in and nurture each apprentice as a valued member of the team. Nicola worked closely with Group HR & Payroll Manager Alison Mitchell to ensure staff were actively included, and that recommendations to support the business were effectively followed through.
Bridgend Motor Group has developed a robust apprenticeship model, providing apprentices with a structured and supportive pathway.
The apprenticeship journey begins with induction at the Bridgend Motor Group Training Academy, which was established in 2019 to address the motor trade’s recognised skills gap. Apprentices immediately engage in hands-on learning, covering vital areas such as workshop safety, essential procedures, tool and equipment use, and advanced diagnostic systems. Shadowing experienced technicians and tackling confidence-building tasks are key aspects of their early development, ensuring practical experience is blended with a smooth transition into working life.
Alison said: “Starting in our Training Academy gives every apprentice the confidence, structure, and support they need to grow into skilled, employable technicians.”
Apprentices are enrolled in a Modern Apprenticeship programme with one of Bridgend’s partner training providers to gain an Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) qualification. This journey typically spans three to four years, with Bridgend Motor Group providing comprehensive support both at college and in the workplace. The process ensures apprentices not only achieve their qualifications but are also industry-ready, equipped with the expertise and confidence to take on the challenges and opportunities of the motor trade.
Alison said: “The company’s approach to apprenticeships is more than a training programme, it’s an exciting and transformative journey that develops trainees into highly skilled technicians, spray painters, and panel technicians.
“Our partnership with training providers means apprentices get the best of both worlds: industry‑standard learning and day‑to‑day mentoring from experienced staff.”
Bridgend Motor Group, which employs 45 Modern Apprentices, is collaborating with North Ayrshire Council to deliver an Introduction to the Motor Trade course at their Training Academy. Currently supporting 13 trainees, the six-week training programme is delivered in partnership with the Ayrshire Growth Deal. Using the Ayrshire Skills Investment Fund, the programme prepares individuals for Modern Apprenticeships in the motor trade. The focus is on building practical, job-ready skills, essential industry knowledge, and workplace expectations, helping trainees gain confidence and align with sector standards. This initiative supports local talent and employers, ensuring apprentices begin their careers equipped for long-term success in Ayrshire.
Alison added: “Apprentices at Bridgend Motors are supported in a way where they thrive, excel, and help drive the future of the industry.
“Our apprentices don’t just learn a trade - they become part of a team that genuinely wants to see them succeed.”
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