Fix Auto Rochester leads CPD innovation

Fix Auto Rochester has become the first bodyshop in the UK to adopt RWC Training’s new ‘Train to Gain’ Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme.

The decision marks a major milestone in workforce development and sustainability within the automotive repair sector. The Train to Gain programme is fully compliant with BS 10125 and offers an alternative to traditional training cycles, focusing instead on continuous skills development and operational efficiency.

Part of the 4 Elms Group and a longstanding member of the Fix Auto UK network, Fix Auto Rochester has enrolled 12 technicians onto the programme. The team will undertake 35 individual courses across a range of disciplines, including VDA, panel, paint, jig, MET, wheel alignment, ADAS, F Gas, EV, plastics, and glazing. Notably, 70% of the programme has been tailored to the site’s specific operational needs.

Robert Dearnaley, Managing Director at Fix Auto Rochester, said: “Adopting Train to Gain was about securing sustainable, future-proof training for our team. No longer are we just assessing technicians – we are up-skilling and complying with the BS 10125 standard at the same time.

“The ability to spread our training costs monthly, combined with the removal of extensive travel, brings multiple tangible benefits. It helps with cost certainty and provides significant savings on operational costs. Crucially, the reduced travel also directly contributes to our carbon reduction goals.”

Fix Auto Rochester has completed a full onboarding process with RWC Training, which included guidance on using the Train to Gain portal, booking courses, managing communication flows, and capturing video evidence for skills validation. Training progress will be monitored by RWC, with monthly reports ensuring visibility and accountability. The first official training session is scheduled for 26 January.

Matt Mardell, Business Development Director at RWC Training (pictured), said: “Our entire effort in building Train to Gain was focused on creating a programme that complies with BS 10125 and works in the real world. We are incredibly proud to partner with Fix Auto Rochester as our first official customer.”