Leeds City College

Our Motor Vehicle students have been snapping up the chance to work with some of the automotive industry’s biggest names.

The School of Engineering has been placing learners with the likes of Porsche, Volkswagen, Ferrari and Land Rover to help them gain vital experience.

During their placements with local dealerships the students relished the opportunity to see how the businesses’ workshops operate, and to watch specialist mechanics in action.

Seeing some of the most prestigious vehicles in the world up close also gave them a major morale boost as they prepare to take the next step in their studies.

An exciting and rewarding experience

Mohammed Umar Hussain, who enjoyed a week’s placement with the Porsche Centre Leeds, said: “This was one of the most exciting experiences of my life!

“While I was there I was surrounded by some of the most beautiful cars in the world and I got to work with some incredibly talented mechanics and engineers.

“I learned so much about the inner workings of these amazing machines, and I was constantly amazed by the level of precision and attention to detail that went into every car that came through our garage.

“It was definitely a challenging job but also incredibly rewarding, and I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to work with such an iconic brand.”

Inspired, Mohammed is now aiming to continue his studies with a Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles diploma course, with a view to later gaining an apprenticeship.

Praise for our students’ commitment and work ethic

Fellow student Bailey Mills, meanwhile, is looking forward to starting an apprenticeship with Vertu Volkswagen Leeds in September, after impressing during his time there. The dealership also recently asked a group from the college to visit to learn about its after sales operation.

Service Manager, Daz Osborne, said: “We always look to support the local community, and I thought that inviting the students to our business to get a real feel for how the after sales department operates would help decide on their future path.

“The group were really interested and asked lots of good questions about our business.

“Bailey, meanwhile, came to us voluntarily to gain work experience in the workshop as a technician. He has been with us now for several weeks and really enjoyed the opportunity, so much so he has applied for a position on a Volkswagen apprenticeship, which we are more than happy to offer.”

Senior Sales and Marketing Support Executive at Porsche Centre Leeds, Ben Stuart, was also impressed with his visitors. He said: “It has been a real pleasure to welcome Leeds City College students to the centre. Porsche is about creating a community full of lasting memories, not just with our clients but with the colleagues we work with.

“The hard work and dedication shown by the students during their time on site and placement is sure to set them up for the future. We look forward to welcoming students back soon.”

A significant step in the learning journey

Pastoral Course Leader, Matt Webley, added: “These placements and ‘industry walks’ are so important to our students and represent significant stages in their learning journeys.

“The experience gives them a real insight into the industry, highlights the opportunities that exist and inspires them to really work hard and achieve.

“We are very grateful to all of the dealerships who have welcomed our students so warmly, looked after them so well, and ensured they got the most possible out of their time.”