Scott Bowes, a Skillnet Skills Coach and Assessor outlines why he is the right guy for the job and offers advice to his apprentices.
I’ve been around or working on trucks for the past 30 years working for MAN, Mercedes Benz and, in the old days, ERF. I also managed a commercial vehicle workshop for five years.
I have a good understanding of what it’s like to be an apprentice. I actually started my career as a truck apprentice and won an Apprentice of the Year award back in the 1980s. I hope that my knowledge of an apprentice’s point of view comes across in my teaching.
I’ve been an assessor/skills coach, mainly on the DAF programme, for over seven years, and previously taught HV mechanics for five years in a further education college.
My Role
My role is to coach/guide and advise my apprentices on all aspects during the length of their apprenticeship. This will include assessing workplace evidence, working with their mentor and employer, carrying out regular on-site visits and remote progress reviews, and preparing learners for functional skills.
I find my role extremely rewarding as I get a chance to pass on my skills and experience to the apprentices on my caseload.
Advice to Potential Apprentices
To anyone wanting to enrol on an Apprenticeship I’d say ‘Do your research’. Make sure it is a role that you are going to enjoy and have a genuine interest in. Be prepared and organised for assessments, interviews etc.
Advice to Current Apprentices
Be organised and achieve all targets set in the timeframe. We always provide enough time, it’s just a case of applying yourself. Push yourself and try things that are out of your comfort zone. And very importantly, have fun and enjoy your role.
Successes
For me it’s all about my role and seeing my students progress. Many of my ex apprentices have won prestigious Apprentice of The Year awards. Some have gained promotions in a short timeframe to such roles as Workshop Supervisor or Service Manager. Yes, I think I’ve got a pretty decent track record.