Vehicle Damage Panel Apprentice Technician (Metroline Manchester)
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Company: Metroline Manchester
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Location: Stalybridge, SK15 1QP
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Type: Apprenticeship
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Salary: £16,736.72 per year
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Sector: Engineering and manufacturing
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Ref: NAS-2000029748
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Application Deadline Date: 01/06/2026
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Start Date: 07/09/2026
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Positions Available: 1
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Working Week: Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch.
Brief Description
Start your career in automotive accident repair with Metroline Manchester. As a Vehicle Damage Panel Technician apprentice, you’ll gain hands-on experience repairing buses and coaches while working towards a Level 3 qualification, with expert support, structured training, and clear progression into a skilled technical role.
Training to be Provided
S&B Automotive Academy is a specialist automotive apprenticeship training provider based in Bedminster, Bristol. As part of this apprenticeship, you will gain hands-on experience repairing collision damage within a professional bodyshop environment, developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for the Vehicle Damage Panel Technician standard.
Throughout the programme, you will attend block training at S&B Automotive Academy, typically 6 one-week blocks per year (Monday to Friday) alongside your workplace learning.
You will be supported throughout your apprenticeship by:
- A workplace mentor
- An S&B Development Coach
- An electronic logbook to track your progress (accessible by both you and your employer)
You will complete Gateway Assessments at the end of each year, progressing towards your final End-Point Assessment (EPA).
Training will focus on panel repair techniques, including removing and refitting panels, repairing damaged bodywork, using specialist tools and equipment, and working to manufacturer and industry standards within a repair workshop environment.
For national apprentices attending block training in Bristol:
- S&B Automotive Academy is located near Bristol Temple Meads railway station and the M32
- Travel and accommodation are fully funded by the employer
- Accommodation includes a single occupancy hotel room, with breakfast and an evening meal provided during the weekly training blocks
Future Prospects
Metroline Manchester are dedicated to supporting your career development beyond the apprenticeship. With your qualification and experience, you’ll be well-positioned to take on further accident repair or technical training or advance into supervisory or specialist roles within Metroline Manchester or across the wider transport engineering industry.
Vacancy Detail
Working alongside experienced technicians, you’ll develop the skills to repair accident-damaged vehicles to industry standards.
You will learn how to:
- Assess vehicle damage and identify repair methods
- Remove and replace damaged panels and components
- Repair panels using metalworking tools and techniques
- Carry out welding and bonding repairs
- Realign vehicle structures using specialist equipment
- Work with modern materials including high-strength steels and composites
- Complete quality checks and final inspections
Other Information
Closing dates, interviews and start dates are subject to change, and interviews may take place at any time. Once S&B receives your application, eligibility and suitability checks will be completed before suitable applicants are shared with the employer. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, and a benchmarking initial assessment may be required. You will be contacted by S&B or the employer if selected to progress. If you wish to withdraw your application, please inform us as soon as possible.