The Heritage Skills Academy offers exceptional apprenticeship programs designed to preserve the artistry and craftsmanship of classic car restoration. With a focus on both mechanical systems and coachbuilding, the academy provides hands-on experience and in-depth training for the next generation of skilled craftsmen and women. Whether you're fascinated by vintage vehicles or passionate about preserving automotive history, the academy’s comprehensive programs at Bicester Heritage and Brooklands Museum ensure apprentices learn from some of the best in the industry.

Apprenticeships Offered at the Heritage Skills Academy

1. Mechanical Technician Apprenticeship

Duration: 36 months
Apprenticeship Level: 3 (Advanced)

This apprenticeship focuses on teaching apprentices the critical skills, knowledge, and behaviours associated with the mechanical systems of vintage and modern classic vehicles. Apprentices will gain expertise in the inspection, maintenance, and preservation of historic vehicle systems, ranging from early combustion engines to more modern mechanical technology.

Key Skills and Knowledge Gained:

• Understanding of historic vehicle mechanical systems, including rotary, radial, and compression ignition engines.
• Safe operation of historic vehicle systems and components.
• Advanced knowledge of chassis design, fuel systems, suspension, and steering principles.
• Hands-on experience with powertrains such as centrifugal clutches, gearboxes, and torque converters.
• Techniques in re-manufacturing components using both traditional methods and modern techniques.

Apprentices will develop a deep understanding of the history of vehicle technologies while gaining the ability to repair and preserve classic vehicles to their original glory.

2. Coachbuilding and Trim Technician Apprenticeship

Duration: 36 months
Apprenticeship Level: 3 (Advanced)

This program focuses on the craftsmanship required to restore, rebuild, and preserve the external bodywork and interior trim of classic vehicles. Apprentices will learn the intricate processes behind the construction, repair, and re-manufacture of vehicle body panels, interior components, and finishing touches, like upholstery, glazing, and bright work.

Key Skills and Knowledge Gained:

• Expertise in dismantling, storing, and rebuilding historic vehicles.
• Mastery of coachbuilding techniques, including metalwork, fabricating panels, and varied joining methods.
• Skills in working with a variety of materials, from wood and composite framing to fabric and leather trim.
• Techniques in restoring or replacing internal and external trim, such as upholstery, hoods, frames, and headlining.
• Specialist practice in chassis repair methods and awareness of metallurgical changes over the years to ensure high competency repairing vehicles ranging right up to modern classics.
  

This apprenticeship provides students with the specialized skills needed to preserve the aesthetics and functionality of vintage vehicles, from their frames to their finest details.

Why Choose the Heritage Skills Academy?

At the Heritage Skills Academy, apprentices not only learn the theory behind automotive restoration but also engage in hands-on training at prestigious workshops. Apprentices work directly with mentors in the industry, gaining invaluable real-world experience on iconic vehicles, like the Bentley Speed 6, and mastering techniques that have been passed down through generations.

What You’ll Gain:

• Practical, real-world experience with classic cars.
• The opportunity to work with industry experts and learn rare, heritage skills.
• A chance to contribute to the preservation of automotive history.
• A globally recognized qualification in a high-demand, niche industry.

A Testimonial from William Woodbridge: A Passion for Classic Cars

"My name is William Woodbridge, I work for a small business in Norfolk called Mortons Classic Cars. Before working in the classic car industry, I used to be a DAF Technician at Ford and Slater Norwich. I’ve always loved fixing and making things, so my heart always wanted to be with classic cars. The opportunity to work at Mortons Classic Cars came up, which allowed me to chase my dream of working on vehicles that I am passionate about. Mortons Classic Cars offer everything from routine maintenance to full ground up restorations, including mechanical work, paint work and metal work. Having this vast variety of work allows me to gain vital experience within the classic car industry and will further allow me to learn new skills. 

Mortons Classic Cars offered me the opportunity to become a Coachbuilding Apprentice with the Heritage Skills Academy. It was a privilege to accept the offer. The course is run by an incredible team of committed and experienced staff which, are all friendly and driven to help you achieve your full potential. To study at the Brooklands site is an unbelievable opportunity due to its incredibly rich history in both motor racing and aviation manufacturing. The equipment at the Brooklands workshop is some of the best in the industry which makes learning really engaging. 

How to Apply

If you are ready to embark on an apprenticeship that blends tradition, craftsmanship, and modern innovation, the Heritage Skills Academy is the place for you. Visit their website for more details on how to apply and start your journey in the fascinating world of classic car restoration.