Skillnet, a training provider for the automotive industry, has clinched a deal to manage the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme (FMAP) which already has more than 1,000 apprentices signed up for the three-year course.

Students will receive on-the-job training, provided by dealerships across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, with local and residential college tuition.

Lee Acton, chief executive of Skillnet, said: "We are looking forward to driving the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme to become the leading car apprenticeship programme in, not only the automotive industry, but the work-based learning sector as a whole."

Mike Willis, principal of the Ford College, added: "I am delighted to announce that Skillnet has been awarded a three-year contract to deliver the Ford masters apprentice programme. The supply of the right number of potential apprentices, in the right locations is central to the success of the programme and Skillnet will provide a depth of experience that will ensure the programme leads the way in the automotive industry."

Skillnet will be responsible for the management and delivery of training programmes for the full range of automotive mechanical and electrical engineering disciplines, including light and heavy vehicle repair, fast fit, vehicle body repair, vehicle refinishing and body fitting. It also offers training in sales, customer service, administration and business management.