A new Halfords training centre has officially opened in Dunstable.
Although the centre has been running since February, its official launch took place yesterday (May 19). The facility was developed to expand apprenticeship and technical training capacity, and the event included a tour by Halfords’ CEO, Henry Birch, who also met with apprentices already undergoing their training.
Located on High Street South, the site brings apprentices together for intensive, hands-on training sessions before they go back to their workplaces.
Thirty apprentices have already begun their training at the Dunstable Training Academy, and Halfords intends to enrol at least 60 more there this year.
Nationally, the company now supports 300 automotive apprentices a significant rise from roughly 30 in 2022.
The Dunstable facility was created to fill a training gap in London and the South East. Originally scheduled for closure, it has instead been transformed into an apprenticeship and technical training hub, helping Halfords build stronger connections between technical education, college-based learning, and real-world work experience.
Henry Birch, CEO of Halfords Group plc, stated: “As the automotive industry evolves, technicians need increasingly advanced skills from electric vehicle servicing to diagnostics and digital systems. By investing in apprenticeships and practical training, we’re creating quality career paths for young people while meeting the long-term skills needs of our business and the wider sector.”
“We’re proud of how much our apprenticeship programme has grown in recent years and are eager to build on that momentum. Dunstable will help us deliver more consistent, high-quality training and reinforce the link between technical education and workplace experience.”
Inspiro, Halfords’ partner in running the site, commented: “When Inspiro and Halfords partnered up early last year, we knew we shared a genuine commitment to people. Now, that commitment is clear, with 54 Autocentre apprentices currently learning with us and a goal to exceed 100 by year’s end.”
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Halfords to support the development and future capability of their people.”
The academy has an annual training capacity of over 500 people, covering apprenticeships and wider technical training such as MOT, electric and hybrid vehicle training, air conditioning, and customer service. Two trainers can be on site at any time, each delivering from one of the academy’s two purpose-built classrooms.
The training facility, just over 4,000 square feet, includes a fully operational garage designed to provide hands-on experience in a professional workshop setting. It features three vehicle ramps, a full MOT bay, tyre-changing equipment, four-wheel alignment tools, air conditioning equipment, and electric and hybrid vehicle gear. The site also has a reception area, break-out room, kitchen facilities, and two classrooms to support both practical and theory-based learning.
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