Jake Bishop and Sam Oliver are part of a 13-strong workshop team at Pallisers of Hereford. Where Jake has recently completed his three-year apprenticeship, Sam is now in his final year of the Kubota-backed scheme.

“Being on the apprenticeship scheme gives a good mix of theory and practical to support what we’re learning on the job,” says 18-year old Sam Oliver who has been with Pallisers since 2022. “There’s a lot of knowledge and skill sharing both with the workshop team and also with others who are on the course with me. And this really helps with developing my skills.”

Sam really enjoys the practical side of the job, and has long had an interest in how machinery and equipment works.

“I’m very much hands-on, so I didn’t want to be totally classroom based and the block release course is a good compromise for understanding what we’re involved with, and gaining additional knowledge,” he adds.

Sam adds there’s never a dull moment in the workshop.

“We don’t often do the same things over and over again,” he says. “Each repair job is different, and usually on a different type of tractor or machine. And it’s not always workshop-based – I could easily be out in the field supporting other workshop staff too.”

For Jake Bishop, completing the Kubota-backed scheme and acquiring an industry-recognised City & Guilds qualification has brought additional pride to a job he clearly loves.

“I always wanted to be a mechanic, and that dream started when I left school and joined Pallisers,” explains 20-year old Jake. “The course combines theory and practical experience, and with this type of learning, we also continue to get a wage when learning at college.”

For anyone who is interested in servicing and repairing kit, Jake says taking an apprenticeship is a great way to start your professional career, with the advantage of being fully-supported by your employer.

“Now I’m part of a fantastic team, where sharing information and transferring knowledge between colleagues makes trouble-shooting and repairs much more fun,” says Jake. “It’s very much one big team where we all look out for each other.”