Following a bidding process involving more than 300 automotive training organisations, ten pathfinder centres have been selected to support the further education sector in their provision of automotive training.

The consortium promises to provide a package of support to the 10 centres over the next three years.

That includes the provision of vehicles, diagnostic equipment, access to technical data and training support for lecturers.

In return the 10 centres will promote the benefits of a vocational qualification as a credible alternative to university to attract high-calibre candidates into the industry.

A recent study by the Learning and Skills Council found there are currently 11,500 vacancies in the retail motor sector – the majority of which are for skilled technicians.

IMI chief executive Sarah Sillars said the new training programme would benefit the industry in the long term.

“With rapid vehicle evolution, a shifting retail landscape and intense scrutiny from consumer groups, a robust and respected retail motor sector of the future will depend on equipping people with a whole new range of advanced skills who understand the importance of ethics,” said Sillars.