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If you are interested in how vehicles work and want to begin a career in the motor vehicle industry this course is the perfect starting point. You will develop a strong foundation by exploring a wide range of practical and technical skills in a supportive workshop environment.

During your studies you will learn essential health and safety practices, how to use tools and equipment correctly and gain hands-on experience working on key vehicle systems.

Alongside your practical training you will build your maths, English and digital skills helping you become a confident and capable learner.

You will be supported to develop the behaviours employers value, such as teamwork, communication and taking responsibility for your work.

  • What will I study?

    The units you will study are likely to include:

    Core units:

    Introduction to Health and Safety in the Workplace

    Introduction to Common Tools and Equipment for Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

    Specialist units including a selection from:

    Introduction to Engine Components and Operation

    Introduction to Lubrication System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Engine Cooling System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Spark Ignition System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Spark Ignition Fuel System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Compression Ignition Fuel System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Exhaust System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Steering System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Suspension System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Braking System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Wheel and Tyre Construction and Maintenance

    Introduction to Transmission System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Vehicle Lighting System Components and Maintenance

    Introduction to Body Fitting (MET)

    Introduction to Minor Dent

    Introduction to Joining Motor Vehicle Materials

    Introduction to Mixing, Applying and Shaping Body Filler

    Introduction to Masking Materials and Techniques

    Introduction to Applying Aerosol

    Introduction to Preparing and Applying Aerosol Topcoats

    You will build confidence through practical tasks, supported by classroom learning and digital resources.

    *All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.

  • Who is this course for?

    This course is ideal for you if you are motivated, keen to learn and have an interest in the motor vehicle industry and wish to gain an Entry Level qualification in motor vehicle technology.

  • How is the course assessed?

    This course is assessed through:

    Practical tasks

    Assignments

    Online multi-choice exam

  • Your Study Programme

    If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme this could be a vocational or technical qualification. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can.

    Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career.

    If you have chosen to study for a T Level qualification, this will involve college-based theory and practice lessons along with relevant work placement to enable you to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for.

    Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.

    All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).

  • Knowledge

    You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:

    You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:

    How the automotive industry is organised and how businesses operate day to day

    How to look after tools and keep the workshop clean and safe

    Basic rules and laws when fitting accessories or modifying vehicles

    Understand the basic principles of paint spraying

  • Skills

    You will have the ability to:

    You will have the ability to:

    Identify vehicle parts and understand the purpose of each

    Understand business processes and complete a written account of practical tasks

    Complete a range practical tasks to make a vehicle road worthy

    Understand the basic skills of paint spraying

  • Behaviours

    What is required?

    What is required?

    Take responsibility when required and be accountable when things don't go as planned

    Operate as an effective team member

    Build effect relationships with colleagues and customers.

  • General info

    You may be required to go on trips or purchase a kit and uniform to undertake this course. Information about individual items and their associated costs will be sent to you in June/July before you enrol.

    Some students may be eligible for support from the Student Bursary Scheme with the costs of coming to college. Applications are available on the college website under Student Support. If you require further assistance or would like to speak with a member of Student Services, please email financial.support@northamptoncollege.ac.uk or call 01604 734333.

    If you are applying for financial assistance, please do not purchase any kit items. If your application is successful, the necessary items will be provided to you.

  • Progression and Career Opportunities

    On completion you can progress to a Level 1 qualification in vehicle maintenance or refinishing or begin your journey towards careers such as a vehicle technician, body repair assistant or workshop operative.

  • Entry Requirements for new students

    GCSEs - mainly 2-1 grades. Satisfactory school reference

    Equivalent qualifications will be considered

  • Admissions Process

    We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply.

    These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.

    Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements.

    If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.