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Attendance at the launch of the NVQ apprenticeship funded training programme exceeded expectations at the end of last month, BikeBiz has been told.
Held at Cycle Systems Academy the Apprenticeship launch, in association with Havering College, saw IBDs, bike industry organisations and would-be apprentices turn up.
Nigel Hogg from Havering College and speakers from the national Apprenticeship Service gave presentations to the crowd.
"Apprenticeships are a fantastic way of helping businesses develop new talent and skills," said Mayor of London Boris Johnson.
"They also help build a loyal and committed workforce and strengthen London’s diverse skills base. The explosion in cycling across London, spearheaded by my flagship bike hire scheme and the new cycle superhighways, means it has never been more important to have steady supply of trained mechanics to keep the capital’s cyclists on the road."
Sean Lally, Cycle Systems director, said of the launch: “What a great night. We had everyone here: from industry organisations, to independent bikeshops, to young would-be apprentices looking to hook up with a potential employer.
"It was really satisfying to see people meeting and getting what they wanted out of the evening. We had someone who is currently studying with us land a job there and then with Brick Lane Bikes, a potential apprentice offered an interview at a Specialized Concept store and plenty of others.”
Cycle Systems co-director Julia Lally said: “Havering College is one of the biggest and most respected Further Education colleges in the UK. With quality kite marks coming out of their ears and a turnover of over £36 million, we couldn’t think of a better or more heavyweight partner to be working with.”
Sean Lally concluded: “It means that the training market for cycle mechanics is opening up. A lot of people seemed really happy to see that and we are certainly looking forward to delivering our quality training around the UK.”
