NBRA hosts second Apprentice Breakfast Club
The National Body Repair Association (NBRA) has hosted its second Apprentice Breakfast Club, at Blackpool and The Fylde College.
Launched in partnership with Ageas UK and LKQ, the initiative aims to bring the industry together to tackle the ongoing skills crisis.
The second Apprentice Breakfast Club brought together repairers, training providers, colleges, industry charities AutoRaise and Ben, as well as representatives from Ageas, LKQ, and the NBRA.
The event revealed a genuine appetite among employers to take on apprentices, but also highlighted barriers around the perceived cost of training, apprentice expectations, and the pressure on production. The group also underlined the importance of sharing success stories to attract the next generation and encourage employers to invest in talent.
Collaboration
Thomas Hudd, technical manager at NBRA/VBRA, said: “The skills shortage continues to affect our industry, and collaboration remains key. This event enabled open and constructive discussion, and we will continue to champion the importance of apprenticeships both now and for time to come.
“At the NBRA, our goal is to keep the apprenticeship conversation alive, to understand where support is needed most and to collaborate with the industry on apprenticeship opportunities.”
Fresh perspectives
Jodie Mullard, director of customer strategy, specialist businesses at LKQ, added: “We’re proud to continue our collaboration with the NBRA and Ageas through the next edition of the Apprentice Breakfast Club. Coming together as an industry to share ideas, remove barriers, and inspire more repairers to invest in apprenticeships is essential.
“We’ve seen first-hand how apprentices bring fresh perspectives, energy, and skills that are vital to the future of our trade. It’s fantastic to see momentum building following two truly inspiring events.”
Stephen Linklater, chief claims officer Ageas UK, concluded:
“Highly skilled accident repair technicians are vital for our customers, our business, and our continued drive to elevate the claims service we offer. By investing in apprenticeships, we’re not only increasing awareness of the exciting career opportunities in this field but also helping to build a more sustainable workforce for the future.”
