Expansion at Thatcham Nuneaton to satisfy VDA demand

Thatcham have moved to meet the increasing demand for VDA (Vehicle Damage Assessor) ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation) and training, with the news of a third dedicated unit, at their regional Automotive Academy in Nuneaton.

Despite an investment in additional facilities by Thatcham, funded by UK insurers during 2008, current demand exceeds existing capacity. Thatcham now hope to address this situation with the new facility putting Thatcham’s presence on the MIRA complex up to three units – 2 solely dedicated to VDA and 1 to Panel.

The additional unit will provide technical work bays for 8 vehicles, plus 2 classroom facilities overlooking the bays to accommodate 12 candidates and will support the training and assessment of body shop Vehicle Damage Assessors delivering Thatcham’s VDA training courses and assessments.

The success of the Thatcham/BSI Vehicle Body Repair Kitemark has led to an ever increasing demand for training and assessment, particularly in the Vehicle Damage Assessor discipline. With the continued steady take up of the Kitemark, indeed the number of Kitemark License holders is now approaching 350, demand is likely to increase. The opening of the facility, scheduled for 1st August, could therefore not have come at a better time.

Ben Cardy, Head of Thatcham’s Automotive Academy, said “This extension of Thatcham’s midlands training base clearly demonstrates our commitment to providing a high level of service and availability to our customers and will press home our position as market leader in provision of VDA training and skills assessment.”

ATA VDA dates in the new facility are already available on Thatcham’s website at thatcham.org/training