News and events

In a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, the Head of Business at Mercedes Benz Weston-super-Mare, who has been with Sytner for 23 years and the Mercedes-Benz brand for nearly 25 years, lauds the impact of T Level learners since they joined the prestigious dealership in April 2023.

The T Level program, a recent addition to the educational landscape, has already made a significant difference at Sytner. The Head of Business couldn't be more proud of the T Level students who have seamlessly integrated into the team. Instead of merely feeling like students, they have proven themselves to be valuable assets to the business. From the initial interview stage to their present roles, these learners have demonstrated a fantastic work ethic and a positive attitude towards learning, customers, and the wider team at Mercedes Benz Weston-super-Mare.

During their industry placement at Sytner, the T Level learners have contributed to various projects and completed tasks across the dealership. They have not only gained practical experience but also developed essential skills that are hard to acquire in a traditional classroom setting. The dealership has provided them with an opportunity to excel in customer service, maintain professional standards, and learn about workplace expectations. Moreover, they have honed their problem-solving abilities and have learned to seek out solutions, expanding their perspectives on how actions and processes can impact outcomes in a real business environment.

The collaboration with Weston College has been instrumental in fostering this exceptional partnership. The Head of Business expresses gratitude for the opportunity to support and inspire future talent. The staff and students at Weston College have been welcoming and delightful in every interaction, fostering a productive and conducive learning environment.

When asked for advice to employers considering taking on T Level learners for industry placements, the Head of Business wholeheartedly recommends the experience. T Levels provide an excellent opportunity to spot and nurture future talent while actively participating in shaping young people's careers and lives.

The partnership between Mercedes Benz Weston-super-Mare and Weston College is set to flourish further, with both entities eagerly anticipating a continued collaboration. As the T Level learners continue to thrive and grow within the business, the future looks bright for this harmonious partnership that bridges education and industry seamlessly.

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Last month, the South West Apprenticeship Awards, hosted at Ashton Gate Stadium, honoured outstanding apprentices from various industries and businesses across the South West. Among the remarkable apprentices who were acknowledged for their dedication and achievements was Lewis, a Software Engineering Degree Apprentice from MBDA Systems UK.

Lewis is currently completing a Digital and Technology Solutions apprenticeship with a specialization in software. He was ecstatic about the recognition and expressed delight at being selected for such a prestigious award.

When asked about his decision to pursue an apprenticeship, Lewis explained, "A degree apprenticeship is a fast track to becoming industry-ready by the time you finish your degree. Considering my experience these last 3 years, I would say with certainty I made the right choice."

This remarkable individual was self-nominated for the award, with encouragement from their team lead and a glowing reference provided by colleagues who believed he was well-suited for the recognition. The nomination was attributed to his outstanding work, both inside and outside the company.

One of the key factors contributing to the nomination was his involvement in several different roles outside their day-to-day responsibilities. Lewis actively participated in induction and outreach events, becoming an apprentice ambassador at the University Centre Weston (UCW), his education provider for the apprenticeship. His dedication to representing and inspiring others in the field made him an excellent role model for future apprentices in the industry.

The South West Apprenticeship Awards ceremony took place on 6th July 2023, and the event was filled with excitement, offering numerous photo opportunities, a reception with drinks, and a delicious meal. The awards were hosted by Commonwealth and World champion athlete, Iwan Thomas MBE.

Accompanied by colleagues from various disciplines, mainly software, as well as a fellow apprentice, the winner felt overwhelmed by the support they received throughout the evening. When asked about future aspirations, Lewis said, "I’m looking to attend next year but I’m hoping to encourage and inspire others in my cohort at college as well as my fellow apprentices from the same provider to go for it."

Regarding his plans after completing the apprenticeship, Lewis expressed a keen interest in staying in the realm of embedded software engineering. He also expressed a desire to delve deeper into software security and pursue a master's degree in the future.

Acknowledging the support he received from Weston College and MBDA Systems UK, Lewis expressed gratitude to his lecturers for providing relevant soft skills that can be applied to their job and fellow apprentices for being supportive throughout the journey.

Winning the Apprentice of the Year award in the Technology, Digital & Creative Sector came as a pleasant surprise to Lewis. He stated, "I was quite shocked. There were other excellent candidates all proven to be beyond capable in their fields. It was very validating for all the hard work and effort I have gone through to prove that I am a model apprentice."

The placement provider expressed immense pride in their apprentice's achievement. Colleagues and mentors showed unwavering support and belief in their capabilities throughout the ceremony.

The South West Apprenticeship Awards not only highlighted the remarkable achievements of this outstanding individual but also recognized the value of apprenticeships in preparing the future workforce for industry success. As the technology and digital sector continue to evolve, these apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing skilled and talented professionals who are ready to make significant contributions to their chosen fields.

Find out more about UCW's Engineering Degree Apprentices, here!