Remit opens new academy

A number of businesses from across the UK have put their support behind Remit Group’s brand new Automotive Academy, which opened its doors to its first group of apprentices this week.

In total 28 companies have come together to sponsor the launch of this national facility for the country’s future leading automotive engineers. Businesses, including the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry), SATA UK and Halfords, have either pledged financial support or key equipment to Remit as it launches the new venture.

The Academy on Wincanton Close in Derby will bring hundreds of apprentices through its doors each year. It includes three workshops, one for heavy vehicle training, another for light vehicle technicians, a vehicle paint booth – supported with vehicle body repair – as well as classroom and learning spaces, a break out room and space for hire to local businesses looking for classroom or meeting facilities.

Lead Academy sponsor, the IMI, has pledged its support to the Academy, sponsoring a classroom. Mark Armitage, head of external quality and assessment services at the IMI, said, ‘We are delighted Remit is launching its new Automotive Academy for the training of young people from across the country.

‘Our industry is facing a real skills gap in the coming years, and it’s vital that training providers and companies working in the sector do their utmost to encourage our next generation of technicians.’

Sue Pittock, chief executive for Remit Group, said, ‘We’re so excited about the start of a whole new era of automotive training at Remit, using this fantastic new facility. To have had the support of so many of our sponsors, is humbling and we’re so grateful to everyone involved.’