The Independent Windscreen Academy (IWA) aims to develop the skills, knowledge and recognition of individuals working within the independent automotive glazing sector.

Its team of trainers and assessors will provide technical training courses, national qualifications and specialist industry accreditation, as well as information related to new processes, materials and legislation to the estimated 700 independent windscreen businesses in the UK.

In a bid to recruit high calibre individuals into the sector, it has also pioneered a new apprenticeship in automotive glazing in England and Scotland and expects to register more than 50 apprentices in the first year.

Speaking at the launch of IWA, director Maria Charlton said: “We aim to be a champion for skills development and recognition and will work with employers to bring new blood into the industry.”