Blog

Keep up to date with the latest news and updates across apprenticeships and industry.

 

 

S&B Academy Achieves Good Ofsted Rating

S&B Automotive Academy graded graded good with outstanding features by Ofasted

S&B Academy Achieves Good Ofsted Rating

We are delighted to announce that S&B Academy has been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted following our recent full inspection, held from 30 July to 2 August 2024.

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Celebrating S&B Automotive Academy's Top Apprentices

Image showcasing the winners of the Outstanding Apprentice Team category at the IRTE Skills Awards. Featured are Tiago Da Silva (Go-Ahead) in 1st place, Diego Duran Cuadros (Go-Ahead) in 2nd place, and Myles Harding (Go-Ahead) in 3rd place. The image includes individual photos of the winners in their work uniforms, along with the IRTE logo and a crown symbolizing their victory. S&B Automotive Academy is acknowledged as a supporter in the bottom left corner.Celebrating S&B Automotive Academy's Top Apprentices

At S&B Automotive Academy, we are incredibly proud of our apprentices who have recently triumphed at the IRTE Skills Awards, securing the top three positions in the Outstanding Apprentice Team category. This remarkable achievement underscores their dedication, expertise, and the high-quality training we provide.

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Your Voice Matters: Engaging in the 2024 UK General Election as an Apprentice

A person stands in a voting booth, holding a ballot paper and preparing to cast their vote. The booth is equipped with privacy curtains to ensure confidentiality. The person looks focused and determined, with a pen in hand, marking their choices on the ballot. The scene captures the essence of civic duty and the importance of participating in the democratic process. The setting is well-lit, with clear signage indicating it's a polling station. This image underscores the significance of every individual's vote in shaping the future of their community and country.

Your Voice Matters: Engaging in the 2024 UK General Election as an Apprentice

As the 2024 General Election approaches, it's important for everyone to get involved, especially apprentices like you. This election is your chance to influence the future of our country, particularly in the areas that matter most to you—education, skills development, and job opportunities. Here’s how you can make a difference and why your involvement is crucial.

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Celebrating Excellence: The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2024

IRTE Skills Challenge 2024 event hosted by S&B Automotive AcademyCelebrating Excellence: The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2024

The IRTE Bus & Coach Skills Challenge 2024 is a premier event celebrating the expertise of bus and coach engineers. Taking place from 3rd to 7th June at S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol, this competition offers engineers the chance to demonstrate their skills across mechanical, electrical, and bodywork disciplines. Participants, ranging from apprentices to seasoned technicians, will engage in rigorous theoretical and practical tests. Winners will be honoured at a prestigious awards lunch in July, receiving trophies, SOE memberships, and other prizes.

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Understanding ADAS Technologies: The Importance of IMI Accreditation and Training

A diagram of cars from above demonstrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Understanding ADAS Technologies: The Importance of IMI Accreditation and Training

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, one of the most significant advancements in recent years is the development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). A recent consumer report by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), conducted in December 2023, sheds light on UK drivers' awareness and attitudes towards ADAS technologies and their calibration. This insightful report highlights a critical gap in understanding these technologies among drivers, despite their growing prevalence in modern vehicles.

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A Shining Star at the 2023 IMI Skills Competition

A gold medal in the Body Repair category at the prestigious 2023 World Skills UK Competition

A Shining Star at the 2023 World Skills UK Competition

We are thrilled to announce that Adrian Matthews, an apprentice at S&B Automotive Academy, has clinched the gold medal in the Body Repair category at the prestigious 2023 World Skills UK Competition. This momentous achievement not only highlights Adrian's exceptional skills and dedication but also showcases the high-quality training and support provided by our academy.

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Navigating Your Future: A Guide for Apprentices

Building blocks spelling out the word career

Navigating Your Future: A Guide for Apprentices

Welcome to the exciting world of apprenticeships! Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, apprenticeships offer a unique blend of hands-on training and academic learning. In this blog, we'll explore how the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education's occupational maps can be your compass in navigating a successful career path.

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The Road to Success: How Automotive Apprenticeships Drive Career Growth

A hand on the rung of a ladder, to symbolise climbing the automotive career ladder

The Road to Success: How Automotive Apprenticeships Drive Career Growth

Embarking on a career in the automotive industry can be both exciting and daunting. With the sector's rapid evolution, driven by technological advancements and a shift towards sustainability, the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. Automotive apprenticeships offer a robust pathway, not just into the industry but also for career growth and development. In this blog post, we'll explore how apprenticeships in the automotive field can lead to a variety of career paths, from hands-on technician roles to dynamic management positions.

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Why Customer Service Skills are Essential in Any Industry

two people shaking hands in a corporate setting

Why Customer Service Skills are Essential in Any Industry

In today's competitive business landscape, customer service is more than just a department; it's a philosophy that can make or break a company. Regardless of the industry, excellent customer service skills are crucial for success. In this blog post, we'll delve into why customer service skills are essential and how they can benefit any business.

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Tackling the Automotive Technician Shortage in the UK: Why Apprenticeships are the Solution

two young automotive technicians examining the underside of a car

Tackling the Automotive Technician Shortage in the UK: Why Apprenticeships are the Solution

The automotive industry in the UK is facing a significant challenge: a growing shortage of skilled technicians. As vehicles become more technologically advanced, the need for specialised skills is more crucial than ever. In this blog post, we'll explore the extent of this shortage and discuss why apprenticeships, especially those offered at S&B Automotive Academy, are a viable solution.

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How to Apply for an Apprenticeship: Your Complete Guide

an apprentice working at a desktop computer

How to Apply for an Apprenticeship: Your Complete Guide

Applying for an apprenticeship can feel like a daunting task, particularly for those new to the process. With so many aspects to consider, such as selecting the appropriate field and training provider, to preparing for interviews, this guide aims to simplify your journey. We'll provide a step-by-step manual along with expert advice to make your apprenticeship application a triumph. Whether your interests lie in the automotive sector or you're considering options in the Business Academy, this guide has you covered

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Discover Your Path at S&B Automotive Academy

A road travelling towards distant mountains, signifying your career path at S&B Automotive Academy

Discover Your Path at S&B Automotive Academy

Welcome to S&B Automotive Academy, your one-stop destination for specialised automotive and business apprenticeships. Watch our vlog as we delve into the diverse range of courses we offer and how you can choose the one that aligns with your passion. 

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Electric Vehicle Qualifications: Why They Matter

An electric car plugged into a charging cable

Electric Vehicle Qualifications: Why They Matter

As the automotive industry shifts towards sustainability, electric vehicles (EVs) are taking centre stage. With this transition comes the need for specialised skills and qualifications. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of electric vehicle qualifications and why they are becoming increasingly essential for professionals in the automotive sector.

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The Importance of IMI Accreditations in the Automotive Industry

IMI approved centre

The Importance of IMI Accreditations in the Automotive Industry

In the ever-changing landscape of the automotive sector, staying ahead of the game is crucial for career progression and business expansion. One way to ensure you're at the forefront of the industry is by securing accreditations from reputable organisations. Among these, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) stands out as a leading authority. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of IMI accreditations and why they are essential for anyone serious about a career in automotive.

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Looking for a Career That's Going Places? Demand for Automotive Skills is at an All-Time High

  A member of the S&B Academy teaching team showing an automotive apprentice part of a car door

Looking for a Career That's Going Places? Demand for Automotive Skills is at an All-Time High

The automotive industry is constantly evolving to meet the demands of the modern world, and has always led to jobs that are in high demand; but automotive skills are now at an all-time high! 

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Hydrogen the answer to climate change?

 

A graphic of a green earth being held in a hand, to symbolise sustainability in the automotive sector

Hydrogen the answer to climate change?

Hydrogen-powered vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as a way to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.

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Sweden is building the world's first permanent e-motorway

 

An electric car parked and charging

Sweden is building the world's first permanent e-motorway

Sweden is building the world's first permanent electrified road for electric vehicles (EVs) to charge while driving. The road will be built on the E20 motorway, between Hallsberg and Örebro, which runs between Stockholm in the north, through Gothenburg, to Malmö in the south.

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The role of technology in the automotive industry.

 

an ultra modern concept car

The role of technology in the automotive industry.

The automotive industry has always been at the forefront of technological advancements. From the arrival of engines that used fossil fuels to power transportation to the growth of digital technology, the impact of technology in shaping automobiles has been enormous. In recent years, technological advancements have been changing the automotive industry at an unprecedented pace.

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How to become an MOT Tester

MOT symbol

How to become an MOT Tester

Becoming an MOT tester is a great career choice for those interested in the automotive industry. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become an MOT tester.

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The importance of MOT training for automotive professionals

An S&B Academy teacher showing MOT qualification students a car part

The importance of MOT training for automotive professionals

MOT (Ministry of Transport) testing is a crucial part of the automotive industry, ensuring that vehicles are safe and roadworthy. MOT testing is required for all vehicles over three years old in the UK, and it is important for automotive professionals to have the necessary training to carry out these tests effectively.

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How to choose the right automotive apprenticeship for you

An aerial view of S&B Academy, showing the buildings, car parking area and team

How to choose the right automotive apprenticeship for you.

Choosing the right automotive apprenticeship can be a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision that will set you on the path to a successful career in the automotive industry. 

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World Skills UK- S&B Automotive Academy Finalist

World Skills UK logo

World Skills UK 2023 Finalist for S&B Automotive Academy

Congratulations Adrian Matthews who has reached the national final for Automotive Body Repair!

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S&B Automotive Academy eLogbook

A laptop open showing the S&B Academy eLogbook website on the screen

S&B Automotive Academy eLogBook

One of S&B’s USPs is the eLogbook that was developed by its own staff to operate as a triangulated support mechanism between itself and the apprentice and their employer. It provides the apprentices with remote access to all their curriculum content, digital packages including podcasts, quizzes and videos and an employability programme to prepare them for the wider skills needed in their career ahead. Employers are able to utilise the same system for mentor support and to keep updated on their apprentice’s progression, reviews and action plans.

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EV Technicians are More In-Demand Than Ever - Here's How to Spark Your EV Career with S&B Automotive Academy

A row of electric cars plugged in and charging in a car park

EV Technicians are More In-Demand Than Ever - Here's How to Spark Your EV Career with S&B Automotive Academy

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has been a game-changer in the automotive industry, with increasing numbers of drivers making the switch from traditional gas-powered cars to eco-friendly electric alternatives. However, this shift has brought with it an unforeseen challenge: a shortage of trained EV technicians.

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The Top 10 Benefits of Hiring an Apprentice

An S&B Academy Business Apprenticeship teacher laughing in a classroom with students

The Top 10 Benefits of Hiring an Apprentice

Apprenticeships have been around for centuries, and have been an essential part of workforce development across many industries. Hiring an apprentice has proven to be an excellent way for businesses to grow and develop, as well as for individuals to gain valuable on-the-job training and experience, and is becoming an even more popular way to bolster your workforce.

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How much does an automotive apprentice get paid?

Graphic of a mobile phone and credit card, with the word 'pay', relating to the question 'how much does an automotive apprentice get paid'

How much does an automotive apprentice get paid?

Embarking on an apprenticeship is an excellent way to kickstart a rewarding career in the automotive industry. Not only do apprenticeships provide valuable hands-on experience and industry-specific training, but they also offer a means to earn while you learn.

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The Top 10 Benefits of Choosing an Apprenticeship

An automotive apprentice and tutor working together on a car in our training facility

The Top 10 Benefits of Choosing an Apprenticeship

In recent years, the traditional path of attending university has been challenged by the growing popularity of apprenticeships. Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity for you to gain practical experience in an industry of your choice, all while earning a salary and gaining a qualification.

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S&B Automotive Academy
Unit A Princess Street, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4AG. 8.00am-4.30pm.

T: 0117 953 3001
E: contactus@sandbaa.com

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