John Pitchforth started 'Heritage Skills Academy' in 2017 to address the skills shortage within the Classic Vehicle and Heritage Engineering sectors. Since then, it has become the UK's leading Training Academy for Heritage Engineering Apprenticeships. HSA delivers specialist mechanical, coachbuilding and trim apprenticeships to the Classic Vehicle restoration industry from its Academy based at the heart of 'Bicester Heritage'. It now delivers bespoke mechanical apprenticeships for the UK's leading restoration specialists for marques such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover, Alvis and Ferrari.In March 2019, HSA will be opening its new coachbuilding and trim facility at Bicester Heritage facility.Apprentices currently number approximately 50 and will increase to a maximum of 150 by 2021.

North London Garages GTA has been providing apprenticeship training to the Motor Industry for the last 40 years. We continue to build on our local knowledge to develop strong relationships with garages in the area and are proud to say that all our assessors, tutors and managers have worked as technicians in the industry. Our Apprentices are able to tap into this experience and benefit from smaller class sizes and a strong support system to ensure they complete their qualifications. North London Garages GTA has been providing apprenticeship training to the Motor Industry for the last 40 years. We continue to build on our knowledge to develop strong relationships with garages, meeting their training needs for Apprentices and existing staff. We are proud to say that all our assessors, tutors and managers have worked as technicians in the industry. Our Apprentices are able to tap into this experience and benefit from smaller class sizes and a strong support system to ensure they complete their qualifications.

Responsible for contract management, marketing the business and the management of vocational training delivery across a range of specialist areas. Developed and implemented the Foundation Learning programme to address the complex training needs of 16-18 year olds who had failed basic education levels.

Took over a failing training provider to build Skillnet Automotive Training Academy. Responsible for the development and delivery of high quality vocational training to support employers and young people in the Motor Industry. Attracted significant CoVE (Centre of Vocational Excellence) funding in 2003 and 2004. Created two state of the art training facilities for the delivery of mechanical and body repair qualifications.