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  • Specialist training for the psv & hgv industry

    At Oakley Thompson, we specialise in delivering practical, industry-led training for technicians, engineers, and businesses operating across the PSV and HGV sector. Our focus is simple: to help technicians build confidence, maintain compliance, and develop real-world skills that translate directly to the workshop floor. All training is delivered through our dedicated academy in Durham, or on-site where required, and is shaped by decades of hands-on experience in live working environments.

Built on experience, not just theory

  • Oakley Thompson was founded by two industry professionals who understand the realities of vehicle maintenance, inspection, and repair.

  • Our training isn’t designed in isolation. It’s informed by:
  • Real operational pressures
  • Evolving industry standards
  • The need for safe, consistent, and competent repair practices
This practical approach underpins everything we do, from accredited IRTEC training to bespoke programmes designed around your business.

meet Our directors

Andy Oakley
Operations & Training Director
Andy began his career as an apprentice engineer in 1998, training at Tile Hill College in Coventry - at the time, one of the UK’s leading PSV training colleges. He has spent the majority of his career working within the bus industry, alongside experience across HGV and LGV sectors. In more recent years, Andy has taught motor vehicle studies at colleges across Northern England, helping to shape the next generation of engineers. Andy brings deep technical knowledge, educational experience, and a genuine passion for developing engineers at all stages of their careers.
Vince Thompson
Technical & Engineering Director
Vince also trained at Tile Hill College, where his professional journey, and long-standing friendship with Andy, began. Since completing his training, Vince has built a highly regarded PSV repair business based in Durham. This hands-on operational background allows Oakley Thompson’s training to take place within a live working environment, ensuring courses remain practical, relevant, and grounded in real-world conditions. Vince is driven by a commitment to raising standards across the industry and delivering training that genuinely supports technicians and employers alike.
our partners

Working with recognised industry bodies

At Oakley Thompson, we work in alignment with recognised industry bodies and accreditation schemes to ensure our training meets current standards and supports safe, compliant working practices across the PSV and HGV sector. Our partnerships help ensure that the training we deliver is relevant, credible, and recognised by employers and technicians alike.

Institute of the motor industry (imi)

Oakley Thompson is proud to be an IMI Approved Centre, enabling us to deliver training that aligns with nationally recognised automotive standards. Working with the IMI allows us to:
  • Deliver accredited training where appropriate
  • Maintain consistent quality and assessment standards
  • Support technician development across evolving vehicle technologies, including EV
IMI accreditation provides assurance that training has been delivered to an independently recognised industry benchmark.

IRTEC

We deliver IRTEC training and accreditation for technicians working in inspection and safety-critical roles within the PSV and HGV industry. IRTEC is a widely recognised licensing scheme that supports:
  • Technician competence and progression
  • Consistent inspection standards
  • Compliance with industry and regulatory expectations
Through IRTEC, we help technicians and employers demonstrate professional capability and maintain confidence in inspection and maintenance standards.

Contact us

Whether you’re looking to book a course, plan training for your team, or discuss a bespoke or accredited programme, we’re here to help. At Oakley Thompson, we take the time to understand your requirements and recommend training that fits your technicians, vehicles, and operational needs. Complete the form below and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss next steps.