To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026 which runs until Sunday (15 February), family owned car retailer Swansway Motor Group is shining a light on the vital role apprentices play across its business and the long term careers they help to build within the automotive industry.

The Swansway Motor Group employs more than 1,200 people across the North-West, with 47 currently completing apprenticeships across a wide range of roles.

Swansway says while apprenticeships are often associated with workshop careers, the company offers opportunities across technical, customer service, finance and sales roles. 

Of the 47 apprentices currently training with the business, 34 are vehicle technicians, forming part of Swansway's wider technical workforce of 251 employees with 'Technician' in their job title, say Swansway.

"This reflects the Group's continued investment in developing skilled technicians to support customers long into the future," they said. 

Honor Smith has worked at Swansway for 17 years, having started her career as an apprentice receptionist. Most recently, Honor completed her CIPD HR Support Level 3 apprenticeship, continuing to develop her skills alongside her role within the business. Reflecting on her apprenticeship journey, Honor said:

Honor said: "Completing an apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to gain knowledge and hands on experience. A CIPD qualification is the recognised professional standard in HR, so it shows I'm committed to developing professionally.

"I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone thinking about going down this route."

Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn whilst you learn, allowing individuals to build knowledge, confidence and practical experience while receiving a salary.

For many young people, this provides an alternative route into a career that better suits their learning style than traditional education.

Donna Winrow, Head of HR at Swansway Motor Group, said: "Apprenticeships prepare people for varied careers through training and on the job experience.

"Placing someone into a real working environment, where they develop career skills through real life scenarios, is something that simply can't be replicated in a classroom."

Swansway say apprenticeships often form the first step in a clearly mapped career pathway within the automotive industry, with many apprentices progressing through manufacturer accreditations and into senior roles.

For more information about apprenticeship opportunities at Swansway Motor Group, visit the Swansway Motor Group website here and click 'apprenticeships'.