Automotive Education Report Edition 11

Welcome to the release of the 11th edition of the Automotive Education Report, an exploration of the latest trends and developments in automotive training and qualifications. This edition uncovers crucial insights that reflect the shifting dynamics of the industry, making it a must-read for professionals and stakeholders looking to stay ahead in the automotive field.

Summary of 2024 Q1 key findings

• 8,741 certificates, a 7% increase from the previous quarter but a 4% drop from last year.
• General vocational qualifications grew by 3%.
• Level 3 leads with 55% of certifications, while Level 2 accounts for 28%.
• 50% of certifications are in electric and hybrid qualifications.
• England issued 89% of certificates, with Northern Ireland seeing growth.

TechSafe 

3,373 technicians achieved EV certification, bringing the total to 55,531. By 2031, the IMI predicts a skills gap of 121,000, rising to 150,000 by 2035. Q1 2024 saw 414 ADAS-related certificates, totalling 4,187, with a drop to 238 in Q2, totalling 4,425 (2% of UK technicians). The IMI estimates that the sector will need an estimated 156,000 by 2032.

Automotive apprenticeships in England

In the first six months of 2023/24, there were 6,320 automotive apprenticeship starts, 7% lower than last year but 6% higher than 2021/22. 73% of automotive apprenticeships were at advanced level, compared to 42% for all apprenticeships.Under-19s accounted for 64% of automotive starts, compared to 24% for all apprenticeships. ASA levy funds supported 67% of all apprenticeship starts but only 53% of automotive starts, down from 61% last year.