Audi Apprenticeship Scheme

[AudiNutta]

Hi Guys,

I am looking into getting an apprenticeship when I leave school in July. I have seen that Audi have an apprenticeship scheme for service technicians. I was just wondering if yany of you have had any experience with their apprenticeships?

It is all down to money now, I could either go with Audi or possibly with Braces Bakery as an engineer on £33,000 at the end of the 4 year apprenticeship. I am not expecting Audi to pay that for a service technician but I was hoping for close to £25,000. Audi would be a dream job for me.

Cheers,

Matt

 

[fallmonk]

Go with the bakery and with the extra cash buy a nice audi and let other people fix !

 

[fallmonk]

Ps for £25k as a mech think you would need to be a fully qualified audi tech / senior .
Think it's only master techs that get big money !
Just cause Audi charge £80+ a hour doesn't mean the guy/girl fixing your car are getting that ;-)

 

[Brodster]

If my 1st job after leaving school paid 25k I would of been over-the-moon. Whats wrong with paper rounds nowadays. The youth of today eh.....want everything. Just leaving school...aged 18 max.....wants a 25k a year job.....experience = Nil............chances = Very Slim.

I advise you do your homework 1st and have a good look at mechanics/engineering jobs coz if your after one that pays 25k then you'll be looking for a long time. Qualified Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineeer IEng with 22+ years experience with licenseship - £40k.

Im not having a pop or anything but you need to waken up and smell the coffee as you will not just walk into a 25k a year job with no experience.

 

[Ste_Nova]

Im not having a pop or anything but you need to waken up and smell the coffee as you will not just walk into a 25k a year job with no experience.

i guess he could, just not when there is someone else going for it too

 

[AudiNutta]

Go with the bakery and with the extra cash buy a nice audi and let other people fix !

I suppose, working with cars however has always been a dream for me, to have the opportunity to work with Audi would be outstanding!

 

[AudiNutta]

If my 1st job after leaving school paid 25k I would of been over-the-moon. Whats wrong with paper rounds nowadays. The youth of today eh.....want everything. Just leaving school...aged 18 max.....wants a 25k a year job.....experience = Nil............chances = Very Slim.

I advise you do your homework 1st and have a good look at mechanics/engineering jobs coz if your after one that pays 25k then you'll be looking for a long time. Qualified Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineeer IEng with 22+ years experience with licenseship - £40k.

Im not having a pop or anything but you need to waken up and smell the coffee as you will not just walk into a 25k a year job with no experience.

I totally understand where you are coming from mate. I ain't like that, I am happy to work for what I have, I appreciate it. I see where you are coming from though, some kids just don't appreciate what they have.. one of my mates just has everything he wants handed to him on a plate, the day he turns 17 he will have a car bought and paid for and insured for him, that annoys me! Where as I am having a moped in May.. for the last year I have scrimped and saved every penny to allow me to have it, in fact I think the only thing I spent last year was buying christmas presents for my girlfriend.

I dont expect to have it easy, I dont want it easy to be honest. I would rather work well and earn what I have, that way I will be able to appreciate everything I have a lot more.

I am only looking at an apprenticeship as the idea of leaving college after training up for 2-3 years and then not having a job, that worries me!

The bakery is a 4 year apprenticeship..
1st year in college is £10,000
2nd is £12,000 on site.
3rd + 4th is £15,000.

Then if you have shown sufficient effort and they take you on full time then you are on £33,000 a year, thats good money for when your 20.

But my point is that I don't want to come across as one of those people that will sit on their a** for a month and expect their pay check at the end, I will work for what I earn.

 

[AudiNutta]

Ps for £25k as a mech think you would need to be a fully qualified audi tech / senior .
Think it's only master techs that get big money !
Just cause Audi charge £80+ a hour doesn't mean the guy/girl fixing your car are getting that ;-)

Yeah well I don't expect to go and earn the big bucks when I first go to train, the exact opposite. I am just trying to think ahead wether the career I am looking at will be enough for me to live on comfortably. I would probably quite happily make do with the lower wage and have my dream job. And working towards becoming a master technician is just something else to aim for, it will come in time if you put in the time and effort. But I personally think I would be happier with a lower wage and doing a job I love doing, rather than watching bread run on a conveyer for 50 years.
I went to the bakery for work experience and asked for an extra week because I loved it so much, they were impressed with what I achieved so this is why there is a possibility of apprenticeship. I just think that with time doing the same routine maintenance everyday, I think it would ware you down.. would like a challenge and being a technician you would see something new every day

 

[smurfworth]

Don't bother mate, you'll only be classed as a "fitter" and get paid crap wages.

Im 19 on 15k a year in 3rd year of my apprenticeship but I have more choice of what I want to do because I have the job title of marine engineer.

Car technicians, generally are on crap wages for putting in all the hours in the world. Plus cars are hateful to work on, everything too tight and small.

 

[JudderMan]

A friend of mine did exactly that then moved from Audi to Vauxhall to Honda purely to chase a few grand extra a year. Finally he ended up in an independent garage and got his MOT tester certificate....and then joined the fire brigade as the money wasn't really going up in the car industry. Plus, and I agree with this, he wanted to step away from working with cars everyday as he didn't love working on his own car. He's now got a very fast Civic and enjoys tinkering with it as he has the knowledge behind him but now has the cash to do what he wants to it.

Get the certificates, work for a bit, do a business and marketing course then open your own garage. You'll make a lot more than £25k and have the car you've always wanted

 

[AudiNutta]

A friend of mine did exactly that then moved from Audi to Vauxhall to Honda purely to chase a few grand extra a year. Finally he ended up in an independent garage and got his MOT tester certificate....and then joined the fire brigade as the money wasn't really going up in the car industry. Plus, and I agree with this, he wanted to step away from working with cars everyday as he didn't love working on his own car. He's now got a very fast Civic and enjoys tinkering with it as he has the knowledge behind him but now has the cash to do what he wants to it.

Get the certificates, work for a bit, do a business and marketing course then open your own garage. You'll make a lot more than £25k and have the car you've always wanted

That sounds like a dream Thats the way to go. I have always thought of being a mechanic since I was a kid being brought up around cars but what put me off was knowing I could end up in some really sh***y oily garage. Where as with a manufacturer's workshop especially Volkswagen and Audi you can eat your dinner off the workshop floor, they are immaculate.. have all the right tools for the job in hand and don't do bodge jobs (Not trying to imply or offend any garages in this statement, in some cases it is what you see when garages don't have the correct equipment and don't take care of customers cars, I have seen it myself.), thats what I love about the idea of working for Audi. Basically I like the idea of working in a well equipped garage that can be trusted, rather than garages we have used int he past and you see bumpers and wheels being thrown across the floor, customers cars deserve the upmost respect.

Only thing that has worried me with my application is obviously I wont have qualifications until August when I get my exam results, therefore I have only been able to list one maths grade. I just hope I don't get shortlisted for not putting under the minimum grades, I am hoping they will take the time to actually read my application properly and see what I am prepared to do to work with them.

 

[JudderMan]

That sounds like a dream Thats the way to go. I have always thought of being a mechanic since I was a kid being brought up around cars but what put me off was knowing I could end up in some really sh***y oily garage. Where as with a manufacturer's workshop especially Volkswagen and Audi you can eat your dinner off the workshop floor, they are immaculate.. have all the right tools for the job in hand and don't do bodge jobs (Not trying to imply or offend any garages in this statement, in some cases it is what you see when garages don't have the correct equipment and don't take care of customers cars, I have seen it myself.), thats what I love about the idea of working for Audi. Basically I like the idea of working in a well equipped garage that can be trusted, rather than garages we have used int he past and you see bumpers and wheels being thrown across the floor, customers cars deserve the upmost respect.

Only thing that has worried me with my application is obviously I wont have qualifications until August when I get my exam results, therefore I have only been able to list one maths grade. I just hope I don't get shortlisted for not putting under the minimum grades, I am hoping they will take the time to actually read my application properly and see what I am prepared to do to work with them.

Nice one buddy, I like your drive and willingness. They'll understand about your grades that are en-route. Write a good covering letter, whether they ask for one or not, to catch the eye of the interviewer. Your passion alone should get you the job, but don't worry if you miss out as there are/and will be other chances.

I was exactly the same as you at 16 but had to buy a house etc at 17 and only now at 29 do I have my dream job (self employed). Having the knowledge about cars and fixing them is cool even if you change your mind in the future about your career. I like that you've got a goal and are focused on it. Being tenacious gets you everything you want.

 

[B5NUT]

I know Audi mechanic's (fully trained and well past their apprenticeship)and they get more money doing work on the side than what they from the dealer. If you want to work on cars as a career then go for it you will get good money if you put in the extra effort

 

[crazy88]

My plasterer used to be an approved vw mechanic, says a lot really.

He loved cars, but realised that being a mechanic at a huge company was poo and now he hates cars. He decided to plaster as he never liked it so had no hobby to lose. He now earns more too.

I'd highly advise you to speak to some audi mechanics. It's very prescribed these days. You plug a computer in, it tells you what is wrong and you replace it. If it takes you more than x hours you're in trouble, if if takes you less than x hours the boss tells you to start the next job. If you disagree with the computer, tough titties, you need to do what it says anyway.

We all love cars here, but I don't think a big dealership mechanic would satisfy you enough.

You also mentioned a small independent garage. If I was to be a mechanic that's the exact type I would want. So much variety and much more chance of being your own boss. I imagine there is a whole load of a3 and a4 oil changes you'll be doing at audi, and that will soon get boring I'm afraid.

 

[Ste_Nova]

i could work in a garage.... i choose not to cause i like the randomness of my day job

i also enjoy hobby bodging cars and fitting stuff that shouldn't work, which must be much more fun than being a parts fitter at audi

 

[bleedout]

You plug a computer in, it tells you what is wrong and you replace it. If it takes you more than x hours you're in trouble, if if takes you less than x hours the boss tells you to start the next job. If you disagree with the computer, tough titties, you need to do what it says anyway.

What he said, Couple Mates did apprenticeships through Dealers, one now Works as a Courier and the other works on a farmdoing mech work in the Farm Machinery. both said the same thing started out it was all good and interesting but after a few years of doing the same stuff ( draining oil, replace brakepads etc) that the highlight was any recall work / few big jobs that came in but they ofter went to the more experienced guys who could do it quicker and they we left playing second fiddle.

 

[AudiNutta]

Nice one buddy, I like your drive and willingness. They'll understand about your grades that are en-route. Write a good covering letter, whether they ask for one or not, to catch the eye of the interviewer. Your passion alone should get you the job, but don't worry if you miss out as there are/and will be other chances.

I was exactly the same as you at 16 but had to buy a house etc at 17 and only now at 29 do I have my dream job (self employed). Having the knowledge about cars and fixing them is cool even if you change your mind in the future about your career. I like that you've got a goal and are focused on it. Being tenacious gets you everything you want.

Thanks mate.. nice to know that I have some support :thumbsup: There is a helpline for the apprenticeship programme so I might call them up with my reference number and point out that I only have 1 qualification on paper till August.

House at 17? You didnt do too bad for yourself then mate. Would love to be able to get my own house when I am 17 so I am not relying on others, one of the main reasons I am getting a moped so I can be independent.. work hard and hopefully get my dream Audi Thanks a lot for everything you said buddy

 

[AudiNutta]

I know Audi mechanic's (fully trained and well past their apprenticeship)and they get more money doing work on the side than what they from the dealer. If you want to work on cars as a career then go for it you will get good money if you put in the extra effort

That makes sense. I know that mechanics arent on terribly good wages, which is one of the reasons I was put off originally.. I need a job where I can have some level of confidence that I will be able to provide for family in the future, even if that meant I wasnt able to do what I would like to do most. What I need to remember is this now is my point to train up and I need to realise that at some point in life I will have higher priorities.. I am just thinking for the future as far as money goes.

I was hoping that an Audi Tech would get more money than a general mechanic but I am not expecting it to no where near match what the bakery could give me at £33,000.

 

[AudiNutta]

My plasterer used to be an approved vw mechanic, says a lot really.

He loved cars, but realised that being a mechanic at a huge company was poo and now he hates cars. He decided to plaster as he never liked it so had no hobby to lose. He now earns more too.

I'd highly advise you to speak to some audi mechanics. It's very prescribed these days. You plug a computer in, it tells you what is wrong and you replace it. If it takes you more than x hours you're in trouble, if if takes you less than x hours the boss tells you to start the next job. If you disagree with the computer, tough titties, you need to do what it says anyway.

We all love cars here, but I don't think a big dealership mechanic would satisfy you enough.

You also mentioned a small independent garage. If I was to be a mechanic that's the exact type I would want. So much variety and much more chance of being your own boss. I imagine there is a whole load of a3 and a4 oil changes you'll be doing at audi, and that will soon get boring I'm afraid.

I totally understand everything you have said here. I really appreciate people giving me their opinions on this.. it is really helping me with my decision, so I really appreciate it.

After reading some of the comments on here it has put things into my mind that I didn't even consider. I suppose just the idea of working at Audi was what stood out in my mind. Will see what time brings and see how things go.. thanks again mate! :thumbsup:

 

[JudderMan]

Parents divorced. I was meant to go to university but ended up getting a job and mortgages/houses were cheaper in 2000. It was a leasehold so I got screwed over tenfold by the council and their dumbass tenant in the flat below. I rent now and it's far better. I'm waiting for house prices to drop and will try and buy a house outright. Mortgages are for dummies.

Anyway, back on topic; great idea by calling up the Apprenticeship number. Get as much information to them as possible to show how 'up for it' you are. In your personal statement/cover letter explain that you'd like to move up the ranks once qualified and experienced as you'd like to be the team leader/manager one day.

 

[AudiNutta]

Parents divorced. I was meant to go to university but ended up getting a job and mortgages/houses were cheaper in 2000. It was a leasehold so I got screwed over tenfold by the council and their dumbass tenant in the flat below. I rent now and it's far better. I'm waiting for house prices to drop and will try and buy a house outright. Mortgages are for dummies.

Anyway, back on topic; great idea by calling up the Apprenticeship number. Get as much information to them as possible to show how 'up for it' you are. In your personal statement/cover letter explain that you'd like to move up the ranks once qualified and experienced as you'd like to be the team leader/manager one day.

Ahh I suppose it would have been much cheaper. Was looking a couple of weeks back for a decent house just curious of the pricing and £80k for a house is what I would expect to spend really, that is gonna hurt when the time comes! Obviously going to need my misses' approval too, dont plan on leaving it too long till I am in a position to buy, look forward to getting out of this mad house with my younger brother :icon_thumright:

Rent would seem like an easier way forward at first without having to worry about mortgage. Oh well.. thats a few years away yet! Got many things that I need to get sorted before that.. lmao.

Yes I probably will give them a call sometime next week, I would of thought they have some ability to put a note on the application, I just want to make sure I have the best chances. Applied for Volvo too so I have as many opportunities as possible so I am not pushed into one job that I might not particularly like. My dad said it is probably best to stay clear of Volvo because he said eventually he can see them going to way of Saab. Since Ford bought them apparently there has been talk of Volvo becoming a separate company again and my dad just doesnt think it will work out for them as an individual manufacturer. Wether that will happen is another thing, wait and see I suppose. My dad moved from Audi to Volvo in January and since my mother and grandparents have followed to my despise
He is now on his second Volvo. The reason he was put off Audi was with his last car, he had a 1998 A6 Avant 2.5TDi V6. I will admit it had endless problems.. last time the tax ran out was July, I assume she has been scrapped the car cost around £1500 and he spent another £2000 easy. He kept repairing one thing and then it would be straight into the next. I think the fact it had a bad oil leak on the camshaft oil seal was what wore him down most, she was drinking oil! Still got the 3 patches of oil on the driveway now after 12 months. Shame really, he has always had a love for Audi.

Front end came off his 3 times.. once he and his mate did it to replace a vibration damper that turned out to not be the faulty part and twice for cambelt because the garage messed up the timing. So in the end he decided to try Volvo and sadly is more than satisfied to see his recent Volvo we brought from Ireland. Oh well, one day I will pull up in my Audi and I will turn him back in the right direction. :thumbsup:

Like your A3 by the way mate, really nice car.. love the colour! Post up a thread with some good pics

 

[sportstractor]

If you have got some brains about you, and want a hands on jobs, i would consider aiming a bit higher personally. A friend is a mechanic, and worked for our vw/audi dealer for a while, but really didn't enjoy it with them. I love doing my own jobs on my cars, but doing it all the time would kill the excitement for me. Have your considered working with big boys toys i.e. aerospace engineering or marine engineering. You have got Rolls Royce in Bristol and also Airbus which are 2 outstanding company's. You really should consider your options rather than get caught up on cars because you like them, some things are best kept as a hobby.

You could go on get on an Audi scheme, really enjoy it and be a lifer with them. But its just a bit of friendly advise from somebody who has been through the process of selecting and training for a career, Aim as high as possible and you wont be disappointed.

 

[deanosabby]

When I first started out in the gloom and doom of 1990 all I could get was YTS.
Left school with 'O' grades and went on to college to do electrical engineering and electronics and then on to do audio visual technology and photography and got HND's in both.
Even though I had the qualifications I had no experience so had to do YTS to gain the experience.
Oh how I remember my first years wages of £29.50 a week.

 

[Ste_Nova]

Ahh I suppose it would have been much cheaper. Was looking a couple of weeks back for a decent house just curious of the pricing and £80k for a house is what I would expect to spend really,

an £80k house????? i'll take 2!!! 80k doesn't buy **** up here

 

[_G_]

wonder who pays the most on the apprenticeship and who has the best one in the UK.

 

[AudiNutta]

wonder who pays the most on the apprenticeship and who has the best one in the UK.

My apprenticeship in a bakery I have lined up is paying £10,000 annually.. £800 or so a month.

 

[ben-sullivan]

i done a vw apprenticeship in panel beating and now 4 and half years down then line imm all qualifies and doing major repairs. i love my job as not one car has the same damage so every day is a new challenge. Also their apprenticeship scheme is one of the best out there very good. and their milton keynes and nottingham training centres are good facilities too

 

[AudiNutta]

i done a vw apprenticeship in panel beating and now 4 and half years down then line imm all qualifies and doing major repairs. i love my job as not one car has the same damage so every day is a new challenge. Also their apprenticeship scheme is one of the best out there very good. and their milton keynes and nottingham training centres are good facilities too

I may look into this mate. Not too keen on the idea of doing electrical engineering.. I hate electrics! I want to work with cars, I would do anything.. but obviously the money has to be right as I am turning down a guaranteed £33k job for when I am 20.