Questions and Answers : The National Fork Lift Engineer Apprentice Program

Q & A

Why a fork lift truck engineer apprenticeship?
This apprenticeship is an 'earn-while-you-learn' scheme. You'll earn around £430 a month - from day one - and receive special allowances when you attend college. Importantly, there's no student loan or other financial commitment to repay on completion of your training. In fact, you are paid to gain a valuable qualification. With excellent work prospects throughout the UK, a three-year apprenticeship offers a flying start to your career.

Do I need to find a sponsoring employer first?
No, the FLTA will identify one of its members as close as possible to where you live.

What do I do first?
You will need to complete an application form - click here to download the pdf version, fill it in and post it back to: Workplace Learning Manager, Transport Technology Faculty, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8SF.
tel: 0117 312 5000 fax: 0117 312 5949 Sarah.Hoare@cityofbristol.ac.uk
Alternatively, you can click here to complete an online application form right now.

Is there a deadline for applications?
No. Applications can be submitted at any time.

Who runs the programme?
The national apprenticeship programme is managed by the Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) in partnership with the City of Bristol College. The FLTA is the organisation that oversees fork lift truck industry standards in the UK through its network of member companies (local businesses and fork lift truck manufacturers). The FLTA works with the City of Bristol College - and its partner colleges elsewhere in the UK - to deliver the academic training. The programme is fully funded, so is free to you.

I'm over 19 - am I too old?
The way the scheme is funded means that it is for 16-19-year-old people (on 1st September on the year you enrol). However, it is sometimes possible to include slightly older students.

Would I be eligible?
If you are interested in automotive engineering, that's a great start… To be successful you'll need to be keen and have 3 GCSEs at grade 'C' or above. If you haven't achieved that, we may be able to put you through our own testing procedure to assess your potential. If you need additional learning support during your apprenticeship, we'll make sure you have access to it.

Will I need a student loan?
You shouldn't need to borrow money from anyone. While you are an apprentice fork lift truck engineer you'll be earning £100 a week straight away - much more than the vast majority of full-time students.