Thatcham expands regional academy

Thatcham’s newly opened regional Automotive Academy in Nuneaton is already the subject of expansion plans following the official opening of the centre earlier this year. The equipping of an adjoining unit means that this regional facility, which was originally opened to satisfy the ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation) demands of Vehicle Damage Assessors, will now operate to meet a similar unprecedented demand for Panel Technician training and ATA assessment.

The increased demand for this is being driven by the thirst for Kitemark certification, with BSI Product Services predicting ATA demand for up to 1,000 Panel Technicians during 2008. Translating to an estimated 6,000 candidate assessment days, Thatcham have moved quickly to secure the customised facilities able to manage this situation.

The new unit, which will be open from September 1st, will provide technical work bays for 4 vehicles, plus classroom facilities overlooking the bays to accommodate up to 6 candidates at a time and will deliver focused assessment and training covering:

ATA panel technician and senior assessments
Advanced panel and jig repairs
Aluminium and composite repair techniques
Practical MIG and spot welding
Panel repair and replacement

Whilst meeting initial demand for Panel training and assessment over the next three years, the centre will also support the continued professional development and re-assessment of technicians over a 3 year cycle and will be key in providing the ongoing training needed to keep pace with the rapid change of vehicle design and associated repair technology.

Ben Cardy, Thatcham’s Quality and Environmental Systems Manager, who was key in securing the new facility, said, “Technician accreditation through the ATA scheme is fundamental for businesses looking to achieve the Kitemark, and it is therefore essential that the facilities and expertise are in place to provide this service. As the insurers’ research centre, Thatcham are keen to drive repair standards and safety, and are therefore the natural choice to provide these extended ATA facilities at an already established and centrally based academy.”