In my opinion, for the near future the IMI Automotive Technician Accreditation is only going to re-affirm the qualifications and skills we already have - as mentioned - City & Guilds and National Craftsman etc. The IMI say ATA will weed out the poorly trained mechanics, well why don't they start by weeding out those without a C&G, a National Craftsman certificate or a full NVQ and target them for ATA exams with a view to eventually introducing a license for all qualified people.

By the way, what is the modern equivalent of being Fully skilled? Is it NVQ level 3, 4 or do they do 5? I've been busy trying to keep pace with technology so have lost touch with these things over the years.

Graham