Course overview
If you’re looking for a sound basis to start your motor vehicle studies, this
is the course for you.
Do you love cars and enjoy learning about how they work? Or have you got a
knack for it and think you could turn car maintenance into a career? Whether
you’re an amateur or just have a keen interest, our Vehicle Maintenance
programme is the ideal start on your journey to becoming an industry
professional. Providing you with the opportunity to develop solid practical and
theoretical knowledge of vehicle maintenance, this programme offers an ideal
foundation, giving you the chance to learn the practical skills needed to work
with cars and the theory behind it all.
Modules
- Tools, equipment and materials
- Health & safety in the workshop
- Engine systems components
- Steering and suspension systems
- Braking systems
- Routine maintenance processes and procedures
- Electrics and lighting systems
- How to work in the automotive environment
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through online exams, observed practical tasks and written coursework assessments.
What is it like to be a student on this course?
Level 1 vehicle maintenance gives you the opportunity to undertake classroom learning to discover how vehicles work and begin developing practical skills in a supportive workshop environment. You will learn by doing, getting familiar with tools, workshop equipment, health and safety and the basic principles of vehicle maintenance. From identifying vehicle components to carrying out simple checks and routine tasks, every practical session helps you build confidence and understand the importance of working safely and accurately. You do not need to know everything before you start.
Level 1 is about learning the foundations, asking questions and becoming comfortable in a professional workshop. You will gain experience working as part of a team, following instructions and taking pride in completing practical tasks. By the end of the programme, you will have a better understanding of the motor vehicle industry and the confidence to progress to the next level.
Industry links
Work experience
Industry placements enhance your studies and are an important part of your course. They ensure you develop the key skills, knowledge and behaviours necessary to be successful in your chosen industry, resulting in you leaving college ready for the world of work. It is compulsory to undertake an element of work experience when studying a Level 1, 2, or 3 course. The number of hours you must complete will depend on your level of study.
Course Level:
- Level 1 – Minimum of 30 hours of industry placement
- Level 2 – Minimum of 75 hours of industry placement
- Level 3 – Minimum of 150 hours of industry placement (per year of your course)
- T Level – Minimum of 315 hours of industry placement
Entry requirements
3 GCSEs at Grade 2 and above to include English and Maths OR an Entry level qualification in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 2 or functional skills entry level 3
Progression routes
- Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in Light vehicle Maintenance and Repair
- Level 2 Technical Certificate in Agricultural Engineering
Bursaries
Financial support could be available to you depending on your household income, eligibility criteria, and level of study. A bursary, which is money given directly by the Government, could help fund bus travel, accommodation, course equipment, college meals, or educational trips.
Course Fees
Students aged 16-18 on 31st August in the year of starting the course do not pay tuition fees.
Adults aged 19+ may be entitled to a tuition fee waiver on certain courses (where the Government pays the tuition and assessment fee) if any of the following apply:
You are aged between 19 and 23 and:
- This is your first Full Level 2 or Full Level 3 qualification.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- You are unemployed or economically inactive and your gross annual income is below £26,800.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
You are aged 24+ and:
- You are studying a Level 1 or Level 2 course and are unemployed, economically inactive, or earning below £26,800 gross annually.
- You are undertaking English and Maths up to and including Level 2.
- Your course is part of the Level 3 Free Courses for Jobs offer (and you meet the earnings threshold)
All students pay a standard facility fee of £150 to use communal, non-educational facilities.
Material fees apply to Floristry, Blacksmithing and Metalwork, Agricultural Engineering, and Motor Vehicle students.
Equipment & PPE
Students on a 14-16, Level 1, 2, 3, or Foundation Learning course may be required to purchase equipment such as a uniform, PPE, or kit before starting their course. Material fees are applicable depending on the course studied.
Start dates
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