RWC Training has launched a new, IMI accredited Vehicle Damage Assessor (VDA) course to immediately address the sector’s severe shortage of qualified VDAs. Recognising the significant market demand and unacceptable waiting times for this accreditation, RWC Training has strategically scaled its capacity to deliver a timely and efficient training solution.
It has taken the RWC team over a year to bring the programme into place, predominantly taking the time was acquiring appropriately damaged vehicles which meets the stringent criteria required for the IMI VDA assessment, ensuring practical, real-world experience for participants.
Critically, the VDA assessment also forms part of its groundbreaking Train to Gain programme, based on the IMI’s Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework, designed to comply with BS 10125.
This new course marks a significant expansion of RWC Training’s offering, joining a select group of providers capable of delivering this critical industry qualification.
Beyond accreditation: The complete VDA developmental pathway
RWC is investing heavily in VDA training and assessment, and is committed to providing a comprehensive pathway for professional development. The IMI accreditation forms a part of RWC’s VDA Training and Assessment Programme, which addresses the need for going beyond basic accreditation.
Achieving VDA accreditation is just the beginning. We are committed to providing a complete developmental pathway for VDAs. Our online programme gives them the opportunity to fine-tune capabilities, increase assessment accuracy, and ultimately optimise the entire repair process for bodyshops.
Customers come to us for the complete journey. Our goal is to help VDAs move from beginner to excellence. We want to empower them to be more than just BSI compliant, enabling them to contribute to the financial stability and success of their body shops.
RWC Training is providing a full spectrum of training options, from introductory courses for those new to VDA to advanced programmes designed to elevate experienced assessors. The advanced training focuses on the importance of precise estimates, efficient workflows and optimised job management. Hosting these online significantly reduces the environmental impact of training through zero travel emissions, reducing the carbon footprint. Plus there is minimal downtime as employees learn without leaving the workshop, boosting efficiency and productivity.
A key development in this initiative is the partnering with James Clifford, a highly respected and recognised VDA expert, as one of RWC Training’s lead assessors. James brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the programme, ensuring participants receive the highest quality training and assessment.
We are thrilled to welcome James Clifford to our team. His reputation as a VDA guru is unparalleled, and his expertise will be invaluable to our delegates.
The Vehicle Damage Assessor is the foundational factor in the success of any repair facility. This individual safeguards repair safety, quality, profitability and, ultimately, your brand reputation. Every repairer needs to train their VDA to be the technical manager of the repair process, not just an assessor. I look forward to partnering with RWC to help them achieve this.
Overwhelming demand: 2025 capacity nearing full bookings
The industry is currently facing a critical supply and demand imbalance, with demand for highly qualified VDAs far exceeding the capacity of existing providers. RWC Training’s success confirms this urgency: the 2025 full-route and reaccreditation courses are already nearing full capacity, with clients actively securing their places for 2026.
Want to know more? Check out RWC’s VDA training courses, its Train to Gain programme or call 01908 969 992.