10 January 2022
The AA today launches a Driver Academy to help train apprentices to become recovery patrols at a time when there is an estimated 100,0001 HGV driver shortage. The academy is hosted at the AA’s Centre of Excellence, based in Oldbury, West Midlands.
The cohort of apprentice drivers will benefit from the AA’s inclusive employment policy as they combine socially distanced HGV training with on-the-job experience, allowing recruits to earn as they learn.
Under expert guidance, candidates could obtain their Cat C licence2 within three months, followed by their C+E licence3 and driver CPC3 over the following three to six months, meaning apprentices could become fully qualified within a year.
AA Recovery Patrol of the Year - Shaun Baugh
The launch of the AA Driver Academy is the latest example of the AA’s ability to innovate when challenges are presented
Once fully trained, the apprentices will join over 2,500 roadside patrol colleagues by becoming AA recovery patrols, giving them the opportunity to enjoy a job where every day brings exciting challenges and opportunities, as well as OTE circa £32,0003.
Budding recovery apprentices at the AA's Technical Training Centre
Edmund King, AA president said: “The launch of the AA Driver Academy is the latest example of the AA’s ability to innovate when challenges are presented.
“The HGV driver shortage affects all transport sectors, and the AA is playing its part by helping to fill this skills gap by providing young people with a promising career opportunity. Their training will not only teach them how to drive HGV’s but will give them problem solving skills, as well as, expert customer service, to help our members when they need us most.”
2Changes to HGV and bus driving licences and tests from 15 November 2021
3Salary: £32,000 OTE (guaranteed minimum c. £28,368.96). London £35,000 Average earnings (guaranteed minimum c. £32,045.88)