Home » News » Former Cycles apprentice opens his own bike repair shop in Derby
Former Cycles apprentice opens his own bike repair shop in Derby

Former Cycles apprentice opens his own bike repair shop in Derby

Activate Apprenticeships News / Activate Apprenticeships, Activate Cycle Academy

A former Activate Apprenticeships cycles apprentice has opened his own bike repair shop in Derby.

Zach McLaughlin, Activate Apprenticeships alumni and former Bicycle Mechanics apprentice studied with Activate Cycle Academy between 2016-2019.

He is now the lead technician at 2Wheelies in Derby city centre. The shop specialises in traditional cycles, e-bike and scooter repair.

Zach started the business as he’s passionate about cycles and the lowering of carbon emissions.

Zach said: “The apprenticeship gave me the confidence and knowledge to progress further and grasp some new mechanics skills.”

“I have always been a keen cyclist. So, I have quite a large knowledge when it came to the mechanics of different bikes anyway, but I noticed the lack of bike workshops in my area and thought the city needed one.”

“At 2Wheelies, our focus is on the perfect repair experience on anything with two wheels or more. I strive to offer people the highest quality of service at an affordable price.”

“We offer many services and repairs on everything from bicycles, e-scooters and even pushchairs!”

Adam Harries, Head of Delivery at Activate Cycle Academy, said: “I heard that Zach opened his own repair shop, so I made the effort to go and visit it.

“Now this is impressive as he’s in his twenties and only completed his apprenticeship a few years back, so for anyone to open their own business is a big step.”

“I remember him saying in his enrolment that he loved fixing bikes and that a career in this would be a dream come true for him. Now, he’s certainly achieved that, so well done Zach!”

It’s very gratifying to see how our apprenticeships impact on the future careers of our learners.

Learn more about Cycle apprenticeships at Activate Apprenticeships or join the Activate Alumni community.

Activate Cycle Academy in the press

 

 

Related Posts

Scroll to Top
Progression routes

What happens next? Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there are plenty of options! You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies, or work full time. We will support you whatever you decide!

The apprenticeship programme

You will have access to a range of support and advice we have on offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support.

You can access all facilities at Activate Learning Colleges and reap benefits, such as student discount. However, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries as apprenticeships are paid positions.

How much will I earn?

The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of your role, sector and business you are working with.

The minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £8.00, however most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed one year, you will be paid national minimum wage. 

You will also be entitled to the same conditions as all other employees in a business, including paid holiday, sick pay and pensions (where requirements are met).

What can I expect from my apprenticeship?

You must be at least 16 years old when you start an apprenticeship.

There are 3 types of apprenticeships depending on your requirements and previous qualifications: day release, work-based and block-release.

Your apprenticeship programme may be assessed with:

  • Practical assessments/exams
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • Interviews and presentations
  • Final assessments
  • On and off the job training

You will have a performance coach visit your workplace every eight weeks as well as an inhouse mentor throughout your apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months, but can vary between 12 months to 5 years.