TTS Launch Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Apprenticeship Programme
Launching Our Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair Apprenticeship Programme
We are delighted to announce the launch of our Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair Apprenticeship Programme, providing an exciting opportunity for aspiring motorcycle technicians to develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed to build a successful career in the motorcycle industry.
Funded by the Department for the Economy, this apprenticeship combines hands-on workplace experience with industry-recognised training, helping learners earn while they learn and gain the expertise employers are looking for.
A Career Built on Practical Skills
The motorcycle industry continues to evolve, with modern motorcycles incorporating increasingly sophisticated mechanical, electrical and diagnostic systems. Skilled technicians play a vital role in keeping riders safe by ensuring motorcycles are maintained, serviced and repaired to the highest standards.
Our apprenticeship has been designed for individuals who are passionate about motorcycles and keen to pursue a rewarding technical career. Apprentices will gain experience working alongside industry professionals while developing the practical skills required to succeed in a busy workshop environment.
What Will Apprentices Learn?
Throughout the programme, apprentices will develop a broad range of technical competencies, including:
- Motorcycle servicing and routine maintenance
- Inspection and diagnostic techniques
- Engine, chassis, steering and suspension systems
- Braking systems, wheels and tyres
- Electrical and hydraulic systems
- Fault identification and repair procedures
- The use of manufacturer technical information
- Safe use of tools and workshop equipment
- Legal, environmental and health & safety requirements within the industry
Training is delivered through a blend of practical workshop activities, classroom learning and workplace experience, ensuring apprentices develop both the technical knowledge and hands-on skills required by employers.
Industry-Recognised Qualifications
Successful apprentices will work towards nationally recognised qualifications, progressing through Level 2 and ultimately achieving an Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship. The qualification is awarded by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), one of the UK's leading professional bodies for the automotive sector, ensuring apprentices gain credentials that are respected and recognised throughout the industry.
These qualifications are highly valued by employers and can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities across the motorcycle and wider automotive industries, both locally and internationally.
A Future Full of Opportunity
Qualified motorcycle technicians are employed across a wide range of settings, including franchised motorcycle dealerships, independent repair workshops, specialist performance garages and motorcycle service centres.
Beyond qualification, apprentices can continue to develop their careers through specialist technical roles, workshop supervision, service management, sales positions that require technical expertise, or even by establishing their own motorcycle repair business.
Supporting the Next Generation of Technicians
At Transport Training Services, we are committed to developing the next generation of skilled automotive professionals. Through dedicated learner support, modern training facilities and strong partnerships with employers across Northern Ireland, we provide apprentices with the foundation they need to thrive in the industry.
The launch of this new apprenticeship represents an important step in addressing skills needs within the motorcycle sector while creating valuable career opportunities for local people.
Apply Now
If you have a passion for motorcycles, enjoy problem-solving and want to build a career in a dynamic and growing industry, our Motorcycle Maintenance & Repair Apprenticeship could be the perfect route for you.
To learn more about the programme and application process, visit our Motorcycle Technician Apprenticeship page and take the first step towards an exciting career in motorcycle maintenance and repair.
https://transporttraining.org/motorcycle-technician-repair/
Building Work Progressing Well on New Light Vehicle & Motorcycle Workshop Project
Excitement Builds as Our Light Vehicle Workshop Transformation Takes Shape
The excitement is building as we watch the progression of our Light Vehicle Workshop refurbishment and extension. Following the successful opening of our new Heavy Vehicle Workshop in Summer 2025, plans were quickly set in motion to modernise another key part of our training facilities and invest further in the future of automotive apprenticeships.
Our Light Vehicle Workshop has been at the heart of automotive training since the 1960s, supporting generations of apprentices and serving the needs of the wider automotive industry. While various upgrades and modifications have been made over the decades, the time had come for a complete transformation to ensure the facility continues to meet the evolving demands of modern vehicle technology and industry standards.
The ambitious redevelopment project will deliver a fully modernised workshop environment designed to enhance the learning experience for current and future apprentices. As part of the extension, two additional classrooms and new office facilities are being created, providing improved teaching and support spaces for both learners and staff.
One of the most exciting additions is the introduction of a dedicated motorcycle training bay, which will support the launch and growth of our new Motorcycle Technician Repair Apprenticeship programme. This specialist area will provide apprentices with hands-on experience in a purpose-built environment, helping to address growing demand for skilled motorcycle technicians within the sector.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve with advancements in vehicle technology, electrification, diagnostics and repair techniques, it is essential that training facilities keep pace. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to providing apprentices with access to industry-leading equipment, modern learning environments and practical training opportunities that prepare them for successful careers.
The refurbishment and extension will not only enhance the apprentice experience but also strengthen support for employers across the region. By expanding our training capacity and introducing new specialist facilities, we are helping to develop the skilled workforce needed to support the automotive sector for years to come.
We are delighted with the progress being made and look forward to sharing further updates as the project moves towards completion. Scheduled to open in Autumn 2026, the new-look Light Vehicle Workshop will create even more opportunities for individuals to begin and progress their careers through apprenticeships, while helping the automotive industry access the skilled technicians needed to support future growth. Standing alongside our Heavy Vehicle Workshop, it will further reinforce our commitment to delivering high-quality training that benefits learners, employers and the wider local economy.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting development continues to take shape.
TTS Vehicle Show 2026 in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support
🚗 Join Us for an Unforgettable Vehicle Show – Saturday 13th June 2026
Mark your calendars and get ready for a fantastic day out! We’re excited to invite you to our Vehicle Show on Saturday, 13th June 2026, a celebration of automotive passion, community spirit, and it's all for a great cause!
🌟 A Show for Every Enthusiast
Whether you’re a lifelong petrolhead or simply looking for a fun day with family and friends, this event promises something for everyone. You’ll have the chance to explore an incredible variety of vehicles, including:
- Classic and vintage cars – beautifully preserved icons from automotive history
- Sports and supercars – sleek, powerful machines guaranteed to turn heads
- Motorcycles – from timeless classics to modern marvels
- Trucks and commercial vehicles – impressive displays of engineering and scale
- And much more!
🎪 More Than Just Vehicles
This isn’t just a car show—it’s a full day of entertainment for all ages. Alongside the impressive displays, you’ll find:
- Vendor stalls offering a range of products, memorabilia, and refreshments
- Family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained
Whether you're browsing the stalls, grabbing a bite, or enjoying the activities, there’ll be plenty to see and do throughout the day.
💚 Supporting MacMillan Cancer Support
Most importantly, this event is all about giving back. All donations from the vehicle show will go directly to MacMillan Cancer Support, a charity dedicated to helping people living with cancer and their families. Catherine, a representative from the charity said, "We really appreciate the opportunity to attend this fantastic community event to raise awareness and engage with visitors about the work we do... It will be great to catch up with the team again."
By attending, you’re not only enjoying a great day out—you’re also contributing to a cause that makes a real difference in people’s lives. Every donation helps provide vital support, guidance, and care when it’s needed most.
📅 Save the Date
- Date: Saturday, 13th June 2026
- Time: 10am - 4pm
Bring your friends, bring your family, and come along to enjoy an exciting day filled with incredible vehicles, great company, and meaningful support for a wonderful charity.
🏎️ Register Now
Basic Mechanics Taster Course: An Insight Into Being An Automotive Apprentice at TTS
Inside Our Basic Mechanics Course: Building Skills, Confidence, and Futures
Over the past six Saturday mornings, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming a brilliant group of aspiring apprentices to our Basic Mechanics Taster Course at TTS. The sessions were designed to give prospective applicants a real taste of what it’s like in a professional workshop, while helping them build the core skills and knowledge needed for a career in engineering and maintenance.
A First Step into the Workshop
For many of our attendees, this was their first time stepping into a professional workshop. From the very beginning, the aim was simple: help everyone feel comfortable in the environment and gain an understanding of how it all works.
We introduced the group to workshop safety, day-to-day procedures, and the importance of staying organised and working precisely—skills that are essential in any technical role.
As the weeks went on, it was great to see confidence grow. Things that felt new at the start quickly became familiar, and participants became more comfortable using tools, tackling tasks, and working both on their own and as part of a team.
Developing Practical Skills
A big part of the course focused on building practical, hands-on skills. Over the six sessions, participants got the chance to:
- Learn how to safely use a range of common hand tools and equipment
- Get to know basic mechanical components and how they work
- Carry out simple maintenance and repair tasks
- Build problem-solving skills through real workshop scenarios
The group also had the opportunity to carry out repair and maintenance tasks on our fleet of training vehicles, giving them valuable experience working on real equipment in a controlled, supportive setting.
We made sure the sessions were as practical as possible. Rather than just watching demonstrations, participants got stuck in themselves—which is often the best way to learn.
Learning from the Experts
One of the highlights of the course was the chance for participants to spend time with our Technical Training Team. Our trainers were on hand throughout, sharing their knowledge, offering guidance, and giving a real insight into how things work in the industry.
Reflecting on the programme, one of our trainers said:
“As one of the trainers, I feel the course not only developed foundational skills in correct tool usage, maintenance procedures, and fault finding, but also played a key role in inspiring learners to consider future careers in the sector. Many participants grew in confidence as they engaged with real-world tasks, showing curiosity, resilience, and a genuine enthusiasm to learn. It was particularly rewarding to see individuals who started with little or no experience leave the course with a clearer sense of direction.”
It wasn’t just about learning technical skills either—participants were encouraged to ask questions, have conversations, and really think about what a future in the automotive industry could look like for them.
A Glimpse into Life as a TTS Apprentice
Alongside the practical work, the course also gave participants a better understanding of what life as a TTS apprentice is all about. We talked through:
- What our apprenticeship programmes involve
- How hands-on training and classroom learning fit together
- The different career paths available
- The support we provide along the way
By the end of the six weeks, participants walked away not just with new skills, but with a much clearer idea of what being an apprentice at TTS could look like.
Looking Ahead
This Basic Mechanics Course has been a great reminder of how important it is to give people the chance to explore technical careers in a supportive, hands-on way. It’s about more than just learning new skills—it’s about building confidence, sparking interest, and helping people take their first steps towards a future career.
We’re incredibly proud of everyone who took part, and a big thank you goes to our training team for delivering such an engaging experience.
For anyone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship with TTS, this course is just the beginning—and we’re excited to see where that journey takes you.
If you’d like to register your interest in taking part in a future course, please fill in the form below.
Course expression of interest
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TTS Celebrate the Opening of Brand New Heavy Vehicle Workshop
Celebrating the Opening of Our New Heavy Vehicle Workshop
We are proud to celebrate the official opening of our new Heavy Vehicle workshop at TTS, a landmark investment that reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class technical training for the next generation of automotive professionals.
Representing a significant enhancement to our training estate, the new facility has been purpose-built to provide apprentices with a modern, industry-focused learning environment that reflects the realities of today’s heavy vehicle sector. The scale of the workshop allows it to comfortably accommodate several vehicles from our training fleet simultaneously, including our coach, articulated HGVs and rigid HGVs. This gives apprentices invaluable opportunities to gain hands-on experience across a wide range of vehicle types and systems in a spacious, fully equipped setting that mirrors the environments they will encounter throughout their careers.
Complementing the workshop are two bright, modern classrooms that provide dedicated spaces for apprentices to build their theoretical knowledge, complete assessments and engage in the classroom-based elements of their programmes. Together, these practical and academic learning environments create a comprehensive training experience that supports apprentices at every stage of their development.
This investment demonstrates TTS's determination to provide the highest quality facilities and learning opportunities for our apprentices. As vehicle technology continues to evolve, it is essential that training environments evolve alongside it, ensuring learners develop the skills and knowledge required to meet industry demands both now and in the future.
The successful delivery of this project would not have been possible without the support of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, whose partnership, encouragement and investment have played an important role in bringing this impressive facility to life. We are grateful for their commitment to supporting skills development, workforce growth and the continued advancement of technical education within the region.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to McCusker Contracts, the principal contractor responsible for delivering the new Heavy Vehicle workshop. Their expertise, professionalism and collaborative approach were instrumental in transforming our vision into a high-quality training facility that will serve learners and industry partners for many years to come. The completed project is a testament to the quality of their work and commitment to excellence. You can learn more about their involvement in the development here: McCusker Contracts | Construction of New HGV Workshop, Nutts Corner.
While the opening of the Heavy Vehicle workshop is a significant achievement in its own right, it also marks the beginning of the next exciting chapter for TTS. Planning is already underway for the development of a brand-new Light Vehicle workshop, which will replace the existing facility that has faithfully served generations of apprentices since the 1960s. This future investment will build on the momentum created by the Heavy Vehicle project and ensure that our learners continue to benefit from modern, industry-leading training facilities for decades to come.
As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on our core mission: providing outstanding technical training programmes that equip apprentices with the skills, confidence and experience needed for successful careers in the automotive industry. The new Heavy Vehicle workshop is a powerful statement of that commitment and an exciting investment in the future of our learners and the industries they will go on to serve.
Interested in learning more about our apprenticeship opportunities? Explore our range of automotive programmes, including the Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Apprenticeship, and discover how TTS is helping to develop the next generation of skilled technicians: Heavy Vehicle Technician Apprenticeship.
Revolutionising Professional Development: TTS Leads the Charge with All Age Apprenticeships
TTS is now offering fully funded training programmes in the form of All Age Apprenticeships designed to upskill new or existing automotive sector staff. Existing staff may undertake apprenticeships if there is a clear upskilling opportunity identified in their personal training plan.
In September last year Department for the Economy (DfE) lifted the age restriction for the ApprenticeshipsNI scheme. Previously apprenticeships were limited to those aged 16 to 24 but now anyone over the mandatory school leaving age is eligible. All Age Apprenticeships therefore present a new way for automotive employers to nurture the professional development of their workforce whilst gaining financial assistance towards its implementation.
Already TTS has seven apprentices over the age of 24, proving the appetite there is from automotive employers for more flexibility in the apprenticeship scheme.
One employer leading the way in the adoption of All Age Apprenticeships is TrustFord, which has three apprentices over the age of 24 with TTS – Cameron Wright, Conner Friel and Niamh Dunn.
Sinéad Reid, HR Business Partner, N Ireland, Channel Islands and Marketing, at TrustFord commented:
“In line with their ambition to stay ahead in a changing world, TrustFord implemented the all-age apprenticeship programme, offering individuals aged 25 and above a route into TrustFord
By expanding access to opportunities across a range of age groups, demonstrated by the experiences of Conner, Cameron, and Niamh, TrustFord has broadened its talent pool, securing a dynamic and skilled team”.
Conner Friel explained the benefits of the TTS training style: “The apprenticeship works absolutely perfectly with my work life. I work from 9 to 5 and then come for a week every 8 weeks to the TTS training academy.”
Cameron Wright praised the apprenticeship training effectiveness: “The apprenticeship programme has enhanced my level of skills in all areas and also helped me with my general work ethic.”
Niamh Dunn added her experience as a female apprentice: “Being a female in the industry can be quite hard but at TrustFord and TTS I am treated as an equal and I’m always supported. I wish I had done an apprenticeship when I was younger, I just never had the confidence to do it. You’re never too old to start again and you’re never too old to change your career path”.
Of All Age Apprenticeships, Stephen Wilkinson Training Director at TTS had this to say:
“Although TTS is best known for its technical apprenticeships such as vehicle technician and body repair programmes, we also deliver a range of programmes to develop talent for all roles across the automotive sector.
Our management and team leading apprenticeships, for example, would be perfect for delivery via All Age Apprenticeships since leadership and management training is typically better suited to more experienced employees.
Likewise, automotive companies could use apprenticeships to re-skill employees from different departments into customer service, parts advisor or service advisor roles using the apprenticeship scheme. Using these government-funded programmes to provide training allows employees to enhance their role or change career direction.
And one interesting area that has great potential is our vehicle sales apprenticeship. All age apprenticeships provide a perfect training path for the development of older new or existing employees in this role.”
To find out about any apprenticeship with TTS, please contact Robert Deignan, Careers Development Officer, on 07736958355 or robertd@transporttraining.org.
TTS Unveils Exciting NEW Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies!
Rev up your career with our latest offering: the Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Studies, perfect for ambitious technicians eager to accelerate their career.
This part-time Level 4 vocational qualification serves as a natural progression for those who have already successfully attained Level 3 automotive qualifications in maintenance, propelling them to advanced diagnostic technician/engineer level.
Developed by the Institute of the Motor Industry (the IMI) in collaboration with employers, professional bodies, and training providers, this practical, and engaging programme isn't just about learning – it's about mastering the skills demanded by today's automotive sector, equipping you with the expertise needed for success in light and heavy vehicle maintenance.
Our program doesn't just focus on technical know-how; it's designed to cultivate broader transferable skills that are valuable across the entire retail motor industry.
Criteria for Entry to the Programme
- Must be 19 years old or older, having previously completed an automotive apprenticeship or a full Level 3 qualification relevant to the field
- Prior knowledge and experience in diagnosing and rectifying vehicle system faults would be advantageous
- GCSEs in Maths and English at grades A*-C are recommended
Mid-Week and Weekend Study Options, starting:
Tuesday 20th February - every other week 18:00 - 21:00
Saturday 2nd March - monthly 09:00 - 16:00
The program is expected to take 18 months to complete.
To check eligibility or to find out more, please contact us on 028 9082 5653 or mail@transporttraining.org
UK Government Unveils LARGEST EVER CASH INCREASE to Apprentice Rate!
Today the UK government unveiled the largest ever cash increase to the minimum wage, including the apprentice rate!
The announcement means that minimum wage rates will increase from April 2024, with more than a 20% increase on the minimum apprentice rate. This will be the largest ever increase in the minimum wage in cash terms and the first time rates increased by more than £1.
As a champion of the value that apprentices add to businesses and the economy, we are delighted to see our apprentices receive this recognition.
If you are an apprentice employer and are curious about how this affects your existing or future apprenticeship programme, please get in touch with our Careers Development Officer, Robert Deignan. to discuss.
Read the full Government announcement here.
Transport Training Services Proud to be a Social Enterprise – What Does This Mean?
Social enterprises are organisations that combine the best of both worlds: making a positive impact on society while running a successful business. Transport Training Services (TTS) is proud to be a social enterprise and we differentiate ourselves from other training providers, foremost, because we are a social enterprise – it is a powerful unique selling point.
We exist not just to make money, but also to address an important social issue – to promote and advance the education, development and training of persons employed or intending to be employed in the automotive, transport and logistics industries in Northern Ireland. Choosing TTS as your training provider is a decision that not only benefits the individuals that we train, but also contributes to positive change for these sectors, securing the future workforce.
Positive Impact
Social enterprises measure their success by the positive impact they create, not just the money they earn. In our case, success isn't just about the number of courses we sell or the number of apprentices we train. It is how many lives we improve by providing the necessary training for our students to access employment opportunities and career advancement, as well as the difference we make to industry by providing relevant and high quality skills.
Reinvesting in Facilities, Staff & Training Programmes
Unlike traditional businesses that often focus on maximising profits for their owners, social enterprises reinvest their profits back into their mission. Our corporate customers appreciate our reinvestment in facilities, staff and class-leading training; and our apprentices benefit from our pastoral support, which goes far beyond the industry norm.
Translating Value to Performance
We regularly survey our customers (apprentices and corporate customers) on a range of topics including quality of teaching, teaching methods, facilities and support received, and across the board respondents are highly satisfied. You can trust that you're choosing a service provider with a proven track record of meeting customer expectations. Click here to read some of our survey results and customer testimonials!
And while we have focused on the quality of service provision, the numbers have followed. TTS is consistently the largest provider of apprenticeship training to automotive, transport and logistics in NI with around 30% marketshare. 2023 apprentice intake is in the region of 130, which is the largest single intake in our history and takes total apprentices across all year groups close to 300, which is an all-time high.
To facilitate this growth, we have increased our team by 20% in the past year, and have an initial plan to expand our facilities to keep pace with this growth.
Another measure of service quality is that TTS is constantly attracting new customers. One recent example is that we are now the chosen apprentice trainer for Toyota/Lexus across NI. This new partnership, which launched in June, joins other manufacturer academies including Ford, Kia and Stellantis (the largest motor group in the world, which includes brands such as Peugeot, Citroen, Vauxhall, Fiat, Jeep and Maserati).
TTS is engaging the workforce of today and building the workforce of tomorrow for the sectors that we serve, demonstrating that a social enterprise can excel in customer satisfaction and sustain growth whilst also achieving social and community impact.
Introducing the NEW TTS Auto Electrics Apprenticeship
Are you ready to ignite your career in the world of Auto Electrics? Look no further! TTS is proud to announce the launch of our brand new Auto Electrics Apprenticeship Academy, which is set to commence this September.
An auto electrics apprenticeship is a training scheme that leads to a career installing, maintaining and repairing electrical and electronic systems in vehicles. Depending on the company that you work for this could be working on cars, vans, trucks or buses. Auto electrical systems might include, for example, air conditioning/heating systems, lights, audio systems, batteries, electrical wiring and alternators. An auto electrician generally works in either a franchised car/truck dealership working on one main brand of vehicle or an independent garage which typically works with many different makes and models of vehicles.
The day-to-day role of an auto electrician includes carrying out diagnostics and repairing faults. Repair work can range from replacing simple parts to solving complex faults using diagnostics equipment.
With vehicle technology rapidly evolving, auto electrics is becoming a more and more important role in the motor vehicle industry.
About the Programme
Duration: The Auto Electrics Apprenticeship Academy runs for three years starting from September.
Eligibility: Open to 16 – 24-year-olds in accordance with DfE eligibility requirements. No prior experience in Auto Electrics is necessary but you will need GCSE Grade C or above in Mathematics, English Language and Science.
Training Schedule: Classes will be delivered in 'block-release', where you will attend TTS one week in every eight. The rest of the time is spent with your employer.
Why Choose TTS?
Industry-Leading Expertise: Learn from seasoned professionals and industry experts with years of experience in the Auto Electrics field.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train in our cutting-edge workshops equipped with the latest tools and technology, ensuring you're ready to excel in the modern automotive industry.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our carefully crafted curriculum covers all aspects of Auto Electrics, providing you with a solid foundation of knowledge and practical skills.
Hands-on Experience: Get real-world experience through practical training, working on a variety of vehicles and electrical systems.
Personalised Guidance: Benefit from personalised mentorship and guidance from our dedicated instructors who are committed to your success.
Recognised Certification: Receive a nationally recognised certification from the Institute for the Motor Industry (IMI) upon successful completion of the program, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
Dedicated Auto Electrics Programme: Our apprenticeship programme focuses solely on Auto Electrics.
How to Apply
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the ever-evolving field of Auto Electrics. Secure your place in the TTS Auto Electrics Apprenticeship Academy today and be on your way to a successful and fulfilling career. Apply now and let your passion for automobiles electrify your future!
CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE TTS APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATION FORM
Need More Info?
Click here to find out more or contact our Careers Development Officer, Robert Deignan:
Tel: 028 9082 5653
Mobile: 07736 958 355
E-mail: robertd@transporttraining.org