The Bedford College Group has partnered with global automotive group Stellantis to pilot a Rising Stars Customer Service Traineeship for final year Business students across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire.
The programme offers a structured route from college into paid placements within Stellantis dealerships, with the potential for permanent employment.
The pilot has been introduced to second year BTEC Level 3 Business students at Bedford College, Tresham College and Central Bedfordshire College. Rebecca Thorn, Transition and Employment Manager at Stellantis, delivered virtual briefings outlining the structure of the scheme and career pathways within the retailer network.
Applicants will complete an online interview and a series of e learning modules. Progression will depend on interview performance and successful completion of the training.
Successful candidates will move into paid placements designed to run alongside their studies as they approach course completion. Participants will also attend additional training at the Stellantis Performance Academy in Coventry.
The partnership builds on an established relationship between the Group and Stellantis through the national Rising Stars Technical Traineeship. Last year, three Tresham Motor Vehicle students progressed into full time roles within the Stellantis network. A further student this year has completed training at the Performance Academy and is currently being matched to a retailer.
If the customer service pilot proves successful, Stellantis intends to roll out the programme nationally from September 2026, with an annual intake aligned to the academic calendar.
Rebecca Thorn said the scheme provides a direct pathway into the automotive sector, combining structured training with dealership experience.
Lisa Tomblin, Course Lead for Business at Bedford College, said the programme offers Business students paid, practical experience and exposure to professional standards within a commercial environment.
Arjan Singh, a second year BTEC Business student, said he plans to apply, citing the opportunity to gain industry training and secure a long term career route.
Further details on courses are available at bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk.
