A FAMILY-owned garage located in converted barns has launched its first placement scheme.

Tim Purslow Ltd, based in Nately Scures, has set up the scheme that will see students working alongside motor vehicle technicians at the specialist showroom.

The garage specialises in the sale, service and repair of Mercedes Benz and the service of Land Rover vehicles.

Hampshire based Adam Ikar, a 17-year-old student studying Level 2 Light Vehicle Repair and Maintenance at Farnborough College of Technology, is the first student to complete two week’s work experience at the dealership.

Diagnostic technician, Ross Witts supervising Adam on his placement said: “Adam learnt that ‘can’t’ is a word that we don’t like! He demonstrated an excellent attitude and was keen to learn, showing a professional work ethic always."

Commenting on his experience, Adam said: “My time at Tim Purslow Ltd has provided me with a much better understanding of modern vehicles, giving me more confidence as a learning technician. The experience of helping carry out routine vehicle servicing and diagnosing why cars would not start, was invaluable in helping to further my career.

“Working amongst such a talented and passionate team has helped me appreciate the academic side of what I am being taught at college. The experience and treatment that I have had whilst on placement was fantastic and I would recommend the placement for other aspiring technicians”.

Rory Davidson, director, added: “Adam is the first work experience student that we have had, and we have been delighted with our decision to offer a placement. For us, it is all about a student’s attitude, work ethic and willingness to learn, mindful that they are working in a busy and technically challenging environment, alongside professional technicians who often have deadlines to meet.”

“At the end of each day, Adam and I would catch up to establish at least one new thing he had learnt that day. He never missed one de-brief and was always bright and enthusiastic. The two weeks has flown by and we are sad to see him go. Adam has been an absolute pleasure to have on site and if he continues to see his future as a vehicle technician, we would be happy to welcome him back into the Tim Purslow Ltd family”.