Apprenticeships in panel beating can offer you entry into the smash repair industry and lead to both gratifying career progression and personal satisfaction.
However, not all apprenticeships are created equal. Many urban businesses simply don’t have the capacity to invest in training managers who can give apprentices the time they need to answer the questions that may arise on the job, nor properly show them superior techniques of the trade. Workshops in city settings are extremely busy and more often than not, an apprentice can feel like a hindrance on the workshop floor rather than a pupil ready to learn.
At Leven Smash Repairs Mudgee and Dubbo, we know this is not beneficial to the apprentice nor the future of smash repairs. Living and operating in a regional area has allowed us to invest heavily in our management team and leadership development due to the fact that our operation costs are much lower. It has also enabled us to build state-of-the-art workshops that cater to the needs and wants of our tradesmen. As a business founded by someone who started out as a panel beating apprentice, we know exactly what’s needed to truly excel in the role, which is why we are so grateful to live in a region that provides the support structure needed to thrive both personally and professionally.
With workshops in Dubbo and Mudgee, we’ve been delighted to see a surge in business as the mining, construction, agriculture and tourism industries continue to grow exponentially. Families are flocking to regional areas because of better work-life balance (no commutes!), higher wages, lower housing costs and socially conscious councils.
Wondering if a regional panel beating apprenticeship is right for you? Here are just some of the benefits of working at Leven Smash Repairs:
- More resources to provide 1 : 1 training and coaching
- Both personal and professional mentorship
- Lower cost of living
- Higher wages
- Better work-life balance
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies
- Scope for growth
- Close proximity to major cities
- Reliable and affordable ground and air transportation
- Councils that invest heavily in the region, tourism and cater to growing families
As a family owned business, we pride ourselves on maintaining a respectful, diverse and fair workplace, which means everyone has a right to be heard, valued and celebrated. The best part? We hire on our company values, which means you don’t always need to have any prior industry experience. Simply a passion for automotive, a desire to learn, the ability to adapt, compassion for others and a hungry and committed attitude.
Paths to an LSR Panel Beating or Spray Painting Apprenticeship:
Full Time Apprenticeship/ Traineeship
This would require the student to leave school and enter into a Training Contract arrangement with Leven Smash Repairs. The apprentice/ trainee would be required to complete formal training (TAFE) as well as work on a full time basis. (Traineeships can be part time).
School Based Traineeship (SBAT)
Through the SBAT pathway, the student attends the workplace on average 1 day per week (paid) whist attending school to complete Years 11 and 12. The student will also need to complete formal training, usually at Cert II level.
Work Placement
This pathway is attractive for students that may be undertaking an Automotive related VET subject during Years 11 and 12. Students are required to complete 70 hours of unpaid work placement over the two years.
After School Part Time Employment
If a student is interested in taking on a part time job, this may be a way for you to trial if an apprenticeship with LSR is right for you.
While these are four ways to begin an apprenticeship at Leven Smash Repairs, you may have your own personal circumstances that need to be taken into account. Please feel free to contact us to discuss the best way for you to determine if LSR is the right place for you.
Interested in starting an apprenticeship in Automotive Panel Beating in NSW? Find out more and apply today!
