Steer Automotive Group launches unified Steer Training Academy to power the next generation of technical talent
The UK's largest accident repair group brings together two training academies to create a single centre of excellence for automotive repair technical learning.
Steer Automotive Group today announced the launch of the Steer Training Academy, formed through the formal merger of the Steer Academy and the Gemini Training programme. The new unified academy represents a significant investment in technical talent development across the Group's 200+ sites nationwide.
Appointed to lead the initiative is John Henderson, who takes on the role of Head of Technical Training & Development. John will lead a team of nine experienced Training coordinators to serve a growing academy division of over 300 apprentices. John previously led the successful Gemini training programme, having worked within the group for over 20 years.
The Steer Training Academy consolidates the strengths of both predecessor programmes into a single, employer-led learning framework built around four pillars: apprenticeships, adult learning, continuous professional development (CPD), and training academy capability. The Academy will work with just three selected work providers to deliver the programme.
Steer currently has approximately 300 apprentices on programme, with ambitions to grow that number to over 400 across the group. The Steer Training Academy will offer six structured apprenticeship pathways — Multiskills, MET, Paint, Panel, Cosmetic, and VDA — each delivered in partnership with a small number of approved specialist training providers working exclusively to Steer's standards.
Key features of the new Steer Training Academy include trained and qualified on-site mentors, a structured three-day Work Trial Experience prior to enrolment, and enhanced accreditations built into every programme — covering Electric Vehicle, ADAS, refrigerant handling, and welding, where applicable. A rolling cohort model ensures continuous intake, embedding a permanent culture of growing talent from within.
For existing Steer technicians, the CPD model — previously piloted with success at Gemini — will be extended across the entire group, giving qualified technicians access to IMI-accredited development opportunities and structured accreditation renewal.
"This is about more than qualifications — it's about building a culture where technical excellence is continuous, not a one-off achievement,” said John Henderson. “The Steer Training Academy gives us a structured, employer-led framework to develop talent from day one and maintain it throughout a career. That's our commitment to our people, our industry, and our future."
All apprentices currently on the programme will continue to be supported through to completion, with dedicated end-point assessment preparation as part of the transition.
Picture L-R: John Henderson, Dave Sargeant, Gavin Ruddick, Steve Hoe
ENDS.