A new national training centre to support MOT stations across the UK has been opened at Southam in Warwickshire.

The RMI Academy of Automotive Skills has been set up by the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI), and will act as a leading industry resource for MOT tester training, and in time will offer wider high-quality, cost-effective automotive technical training.

Courses will include:

• New MOT Tester Training

• New Motorcycle Tester Training

• MOT Manager Training

• ATA L3 Light Vehicle Inspection

• CPD/Annual Assessment

• F-GAS

RMI director Stuart James commented: “The way MOT testers are trained is changing, with the qualification to become a National Occupational Standard (NOS). This will be a recognised qualification for testers, creating a professional standard for both the role and the MOT industry.

“As the UK’s leading automotive trade body, we will support all MOT stations. With this major change to the way MOT testers are trained, the RMI is the first off the mark to support the industry and has developed a cost-effective solution.”

The launch was attended by local MP Jeremy Wright MP who officially opened the centre.

He commented, “As the government continues its commitment to developing apprenticeships, it is extremely positive to see that the RMI has also recognised the importance of continued employee training and development, which plays a vital role within the automotive industry. I am delighted to have been a part of this important occasion.”