Castleford College’s Automotive students have benefited from a generous equipment donation from one of the UK’s leading sustainable waste management companies, Biffa.

Chris Williams and Richard Hoyland from Biffa recently visited the College’s Automotive Department to donate the DAF LV truck, which was previously used to empty bins on the A1’s laybys.

The addition of the truck to the Department’s extensive fleet of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) and Large Good Vehicles (LGV), ensures that its learners can train on industry-standard equipment which is used out in the field.

Biffa currently employs two of Castleford College’s Level 3 HGV Apprentices, Bailey and Nathan, who are currently progressing through their three-year programmes.

Richard Hoyland, Biffa Regional Fleet Manager for Yorkshire and East Midlands, said:

“We’re great advocates of apprenticeships at Biffa and are continuously looking for ways to support apprentices coming through the industry. We hope that the donation of the DAF LV truck will enhance Bailey, Nathan and other apprentices’ learning, enabling them to practice and further develop their service and maintenance knowledge.”

Greg Clark, Head of Engineering and Automotive at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group said:

“Donations such as these are incredibly valuable to our department and are vital in helping to train the mechanics of the future. This will enable our apprentices and learners to hone their skills when it comes to inspecting and repairing HGVs, which will prepare them for a range of roles in the industry.”

Castleford College offers a variety of apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors, providing businesses a route to harness fresh talent, whilst enabling students to earn as they learn.