SKIDZ Motor Project Opens Third Training Centre

Charity brings a brighter future to disadvantaged teenagers

The SKIDZ Motor Project, a registered charity that provides vocational education and training in motor mechanics for disadvantaged teenagers and others, has opened its third training centre. The new facility in Banbury, Oxfordshire, which houses a fully equipped vehicle workshop and classroom, was officially opened by the legendary rally driver Paddy Hopkirk, who shot to fame when he won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally in his giant-killing Mini.

Staffed by skilled and experienced staff and volunteers, SKIDZ liaises with a wide variety of organisations including schools, youth clubs, community groups and the Youth Offending Service, to provide training and career opportunities for youngsters aged from 13 upwards. Training covers cars, motorcycles or both and courses include ‘basic checks’, foundation vehicle maintenance and general servicing and repairs, leading to the Certificate of Educational Achievement.

The new training centre at Banbury is a rented unit that has been converted to house a fully functioning vehicle workshop on ground level and a well equipped classroom and offices upstairs, complete with five networked computer terminals. The workshop is fitted with two vehicle lifting ramps, and students are able to practice their skills on cars donated to the project that are permanently on-site. Up to 20 students can be taught at any one time on half-day sessions, 10 in the workshop and 10 in the classroom.

SKIDZ is gaining national recognition as it adds new facilities and attracts a rapidly growing number of students, currently around 600 per year. The project began in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, in 1998, after which a second centre was opened at Aylesbury, Bucks. The ultimate goal is to roll out the scheme nationwide.

Project Director Steve Godfrey commented: "SKIDZ serves the whole community as well as supporting disadvantaged young people at a critical stage in their lives, giving them a sense of achievement and self-esteem. After training, the vast majority will embark on a worthwhile, rewarding career and become responsible citizens rather than a burden on society. We often hear the term ‘problem kids’. In fact, there are a lot of kids with problems, but very few problem kids. The key is to focus their minds on something meaningful to them and channel their energies in a positive direction."

"Fantastic scheme"

After unveiling a commemorative plaque at the new Banbury training centre, 72 year old Paddy Hopkirk said, "SKIDZ is a fantastic scheme, run by professionals with integrity and operated without any wastage. It gives youngsters a much needed aim in life, fills them with confidence, changes their attitudes and provides them with a bright future. At the same time, the project is helping to fill a serious skills shortage in the motor trade, which is crying out for young technicians."

As a charity, SKIDZ relies heavily on grants and donations. Supporters currently include: Volvo Cars UK, Kawasaki, the Motorcycle Industry Association, European Social Fund, Learning and Skills Council, National Lottery, BBC Children in Need and a number of district councils.

The project is always looking for new supporters. Any organisations or individuals who would like to help can contact SKIDZ via e-mail info@skidz.org.uk. Detailed information can be found at: www.skidz.co.uk