The Training Manager for Apprenticeships at Heritage Skills Academy (HSA) plays a key strategic and operational role in leading high-quality delivery of apprenticeship training in heritage engineering and classic vehicle restoration.
Heritage Skills Academy
Established in 2018 by John and Janice Pitchforth, Heritage Skills Academy (HSA) addresses the growing need for skilled professionals in the heritage engineering sector. Operating from Bicester Heritage and Brooklands Museum, HSA offers specialised apprenticeships in vehicle mechanical systems, coachbuilding, and trim restoration.
HSA's mission is to preserve traditional engineering skills while integrating modern techniques, ensuring the next generation of engineers is well-equipped to maintain and restore classic vehicles. The academy partners with leading restoration companies, providing apprentices with hands-on experience in a dynamic and supportive environment.
The role
The Training Manager for Apprenticeships at Heritage Skills Academy (HSA) plays a key strategic and operational role in leading high-quality delivery of apprenticeship training in heritage engineering and classic vehicle restoration. The post holder will lead curriculum development, manage a team of tutors, drive quality improvement, and act as a key figure in Ofsted readiness and safeguarding. This role demands a deep commitment to preserving traditional skills, understanding the changing needs of the industry and ensuring outstanding outcomes for apprentices and employers.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
Participate actively in Ofsted and QAR working groups.
Lead and manage a team of Tutors and Technicians.
Coordinate weekly scheduling and planning across all delivery sites, including “Week Ahead” and “End of Week” review meetings.
Conduct regular performance reviews and contribute to strategic business planning and growth.
Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring all safeguarding responsibilities are met.
Play a key role in strategic development and planning, contributing to Senior Management Team meetings. Curriculum & Quality Management Lead curriculum development, ensuring integration of technical areas including Mechanical and Coachbuilding programmes.
Standardise block formats, content delivery, and progress tracking.
Ensure annual curriculum reviews aligned with employer needs.
Manage End Point Assessment (EPA) scheduling and apprentice readiness, including gateway sign-off.
Collaborate with Recruitment to conduct RPL reviews and manage applications with complex needs (e.g. EHCP).
Observe and mentor Tutors to drive continuous improvement in teaching, learning, and assessment in line with IQA processes.
Team & Resource Management
Oversee calendar and block scheduling for all delivery sites.
Line manage a team of 6+ Tutors and a Technician, including appraisals and CPD planning.
Maintain high-quality training environments, ensuring availability of vehicles, rigs, tools, and consumables.
Manage procurement and budget for equipment at Bicester.
Provide remote support and management to the Brooklands team.
Oversee the maintenance and development of the training vehicle fleet and training rigs.
Ensure Tutors liaise with Development Coaches regarding apprentices at risk or falling behind.
Guarantee timely and high-quality end-of-block reports.
Ensure Gateway process is carried out effectively and on time.
Operational Delivery
Lead monthly Tutor meetings at Bicester and Brooklands.
Deliver sessions when needed to ensure consistency and cover gaps.
Act as Development Coach for 4 apprentices, maintaining hands-on involvement in workplace visits.
Actively network to identify specialist talent for programme delivery.
Lead educational outreach events, such as Brooklands Innovation Academy.
Manage and schedule commercial training courses.
Skills & Qualifications:
Degree or equivalent qualification in Automotive Training (or similar).
Recognised teaching qualification (PGCE/CertEd). GCSEs in English and Maths.
Minimum 2 years' experience managing apprenticeship curriculum.
Strong understanding of QAR, EPA, Gateway, and RPL processes.
Experience in team line management.
Proven record of improving teaching quality and learner outcomes.
Clear understanding of Safeguarding, Prevent, and associated responsibilities.
Data literate; able to analyse and interpret KPIs relating to retention, progress, and achievement.
Excellent communication, presentation, and coordination skills across multiple sites.
Confident in the use of Microsoft Office.
Passionate about heritage skills, classic vehicles, and historic motor racing.
Committed to delivering a world-class apprenticeship training programme.
Positive, professional, motivated, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
Management or IQA qualification (or willingness to obtain).
Experience in the heritage automotive sector.
Experience acting as Ofsted nominee or supporting inspections.
Evidence of CPD and recent professional development.
Experience managing delivery resources and budget allocations.
Designated Safeguarding Lead qualification or experience.
Closing date for applications is 30/06/2025
Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance Ltd, Bicester Heritage, Buckingham Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire OX27 8AL
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