The skills and knowledge of parts advisers are now to be recognised thanks to the introduction of an ATA accreditation scheme.

The new Automotive Technician Accreditation scheme will offer two levels of accreditation for senior and standard parts advisers following the assessment of a range of abilities.

Regulated by the Institute of the Motor Industry and following a successful pilot, the scheme is being introduced with three approved independent assessment centres at Delphi Lockheed Automotive Warwick, S&B Training Bristol and Belfast Metropolitan College.

The Automotive Distribution Federation welcomed the moves to highlight this previously unheralded sector, with president Quintin Cornforth adding: “The independent parts sector has to take steps to organise and regulate itself and the ATA Parts Advisor route is a step in the right direction.”

Technicians considering ATA accreditation can take a self-assessment on www.automotivetechnician.org.uk