Jonathan

Jonathan's Story
(Motorcycle Technician)

"I enjoy being in a real work environment 4 days a week as I love working in a ‘hands on’ way. But at the same time the technical classes on day release give me the knowledge I need to go alongside. To top it off I’m earning a wage doing something I’m passionate about, so it’s great!."

Jonathan Holdcroft is employed as an Apprentice at Norman & Birch, a busy bike shop and repair centre in Hanley, Stoke on Trent.

Jonathan grew up with bikes and cars from a young age as his dad used to own an MOT centre where he would spend many a day observing him and helping him out. Jonathan had his own bike from aged 16 and was a regular customer at Norman & Birch, due to his evident passion for motorbikes the manager Harry suggested it may be worth him looking into Apprenticeships and he would consider offering him a job.

His local Connexions centre pointed him in the direction of Martec training and he commenced his Intermediate Level Apprenticeship shortly afterwards.

On a day to day basis he carries out repairs and services on bikes, helps to keep the workshop safe and tidy, due to his great product knowledge he also now advises customers on parts and with sales of bikes in the showroom and he helps to deliver and collect the motorcycles to customers.

Jonathan started his Intermediate Level Apprenticeship 2 years ago and has since become a very valuable member of the Norman & Birch team. He is just about to move onto his Advanced Level Apprenticeship which will involve more intricate diagnostic work and enable him to progress up the career ladder in the future