Kate takes work to a higher gear

A MOTOR mechanics in Weston-super-Mare has given its own engine the once-over by recruiting a new apprentice.

Dave Evans Auto Electrical, in Oldmixon Crescent, has been doing MOTs, car services, repairs and maintenance since 1988.

The business, which includes three mechanics, three vehicle electricians, an accountant and a customer service advisor, as well as director Dave Evans, has been booming in recent months.

Now 16-year-old Kate Jackson has joined the team as a business administration apprentice.

Mr Evans said: “Businesses has been very busy recently, and we have recently employed a new mechanic.

“We wanted to make the company a bit more efficient and provide a better customer service, and because we have been getting more work in we felt it was the right time to take on a new pair of hands.

“Kate joined us two weeks ago and will be doing an 18-month NVQ level 2 in business administration through Weston College.

“But most of the time she will be here, helping with the inputting of the company’s accounts, dealing with invoices and working on the reception to get involved with the retail and customer service side of the business.”

Kate is being paid £95 for her four-day week, as well as getting a free bus pass from work to cover all her travel costs.

Mr Evans said that having a strong input into Kate’s training was ideal for helping them mould her to the way the company runs.

He said: “By having Kate as an apprentice means we can train her specifically in the way we need her to do things here The formal training that runs at the same time through the college also makes things a lot easier for us.”

Kate, from Wick St Lawrence, near Weston, decided she wanted to go straight into the world of work after finishing her GCSEs this summer.

She said: “I was interested in learning about business through actually working in one, rather than just at college.

“I wanted to see what it was like for myself, and liked the idea of getting paid at the same time as learning about business.

“Working here I feel independent and that I have to make sure that I do things properly.

She was also quick to recommend apprenticeships as a career path to other young people.

Kate said: “Apprenticeships are great for showing you what the world is like and what responsibilities you have to take on in the real world.”

For more information on Dave Evans Auto Electrical, call 01934 642078, or visit