Mobile repair specialist ArmaFone has launched a training academy offering a range of courses to get apprentices into the mobile phone and tech repair sector.
Managing director Chris Everitt hopes to create the first tech repair apprenticeship in the future.
“We’re starting off with short courses to cover ‘Stage 1’ and ‘Stage 2’ repair abilities,” he said.
“In addition we will offer ‘Live!’ options for trainees to accompany training technicians in one of our supermarket locations or a callout vehicle to gain experience in the real world.”
ArmaFone is working towards becoming an Ofqual- accredited training centre – referring to the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation – and extending course availability.
Everitt says the intention has always been to offer a range of ArmaFone franchise options via vehicle, ‘TechPod’ areas in supermarkets and supermarket-based stores.
“This is supported by our own training, software, discounted and managed-parts supply chain and support portal with industry updates, content and access to tech trainers as part of each package,” said Everitt.
The Ipswich-based company currently has a shop within an Asda store and a callout service, with plans to open three TechPods in East Anglia with a leading supermarket chain this year.
“A TechPod has a retail area and an ‘open’ workshop behind a glass wall,” said Everitt. “Each pod will have a callout vehicle allocated to it, supporting pickups, drop-offs and call-out repairs in the area.”
