Motus Commercials, the UK’s largest DAF truck dealer group, is taking a proactive role in developing early career talent and inspiring young people into industry. With 35 sites nationwide and around 160 apprentices currently on their programme, they’re tackling sector-wide challenges head-on through meaningful workplace experiences.
The company recognises that their industry faces some significant challenges, not just within Motus Commercials, but across the entire sector. With a national skills gap and an ageing workforce, bringing in new apprentices each year is essential. While their three-year programme develops a solid foundation, it takes time to develop truly skilled technicians, so starting early is key.
That’s where experiences of the workplace come in!
Motus Commercials offers meaningful, relevant apprenticeships and work experience placements at every dealership across the UK. These opportunities allow young people to see the industry up close and gain insight into what a real job in the sector looks like.
Motus Commercials believes that engaging with young people while they’re still in school gives them a much stronger chance of success when they enter the workforce. Helping young people understand their career options is a key priority for the business. Many young people lack exposure to the wide variety of roles available, and Motus Commercials aims to change that by offering guidance on CV writing, interview preparation and professional presentation, alongside a range of workplace experiences.
Offering meaningful experiences of the workplace is seen as a key strategy for building a strong talent pipeline. At Motus Commercials, even when a placement doesn’t lead to direct recruitment, it contributes to positive word-of-mouth and boosts awareness of the business and industry. The team makes a conscious effort to say yes to every work experience request, always aiming to find a suitable time across their network of sites.
Alongside placements, Motus Commercials also brings its current apprentices into outreach activities, like school careers fairs or mentoring work experience students. Apprentices are asked to attend at least one event during their programme, which helps build their confidence and gives students someone relatable to talk to.
Sarah Bardens, Head of Learning and Development at Motus Commercials shares a standout moment: “I once took an apprentice to a school event, and he ended up speaking to an entire year group in an auditorium. He absolutely smashed it! That kind of experience is transformative for both the apprentice and the students in the room.”
Motus Commercials has also seen a positive impact on existing staff. Mentoring plays a key role, with experienced employees guiding apprentices through their training journey.
“I see many of our mentors gain a real sense of fulfilment from supporting the next generation of technicians,” Sarah explains. “It’s not just about passing on knowledge, it’s about supporting someone’s development and being part of their success. Mentors often attend apprentice graduations, it’s a shared achievement.”
This culture of mentorship strengthens team morale and provides development opportunities for all involved, building a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Getting Started
Motus Commercials recognises that employer engagement can feel time-consuming, especially when schools request regular support. However, they recommend starting small, getting your team involved, and sharing the load. Once the connection with schools is made, the demand for support often grows, but spreading the responsibility across the team, including apprentices, can make it more manageable.
Would they recommend getting involved with experiences of the workplace to others? “100 percent,” says Sarah. “The impact is real - for young people, for schools, and for our business. And personally, I get a lot from it too.”
Motus Commercials demonstrates just how powerful workplace experiences can be. They help attract future talent, engage existing teams, and contribute to the long-term strength of the industry.
Ready to get involved? Learn how your business can offer experiences of the workplace here.
