If you are interested in how vehicles work and enjoy practical, hands-on learning this course is a great place to start your journey into the motor vehicle industry. You will build a strong foundation in light vehicle maintenance developing the essential skills and knowledge needed for further study or entry-level roles.
You will learn in well-equipped workshops and classrooms gaining experience in key vehicle systems such as engines, brakes, steering, suspension and electrical circuits. Through practical tasks, you will begin to understand how to inspect, maintain and service vehicles safely and effectively. You will also explore the correct use of tools and equipment as well as the importance of health and safety in a workshop environment.
Alongside your technical training, you will continue to develop your maths, English and digital skills helping you become a confident and well-rounded learner. You will also build important employability skills such as teamwork, communication and responsibility.
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What will I study?
Core units:
Health and Safety in the Workplace
Tools, Equipment and Consumable Materials for Vehicle Maintenance
Specialist units including a selection from:
Engine Operation and Components
Lubrication System Components and Maintenance
Engine Cooling System Components and Maintenance
Spark Ignition System Components and Maintenance
Spark Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
Compression Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
Exhaust System Components and Maintenance
Steering System Components and Maintenance
Suspension System Components and Maintenance
Braking System Components and Maintenance
Wheel and Tyre Construction and Maintenance
Vehicle Transmission System Components and Maintenance
Vehicle Electrical Circuits and Components
You will build confidence through practical tasks, supported by classroom learning and digital resources.
*All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
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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 a Level 1 qualification in motor vehicle technology.
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How is the course assessed?
This course is assessed through:
Practical tasks
Assignments
Online multi-choice exams
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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).
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Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
How the industry is set up and how a business runs day to day
How to maintain tools and keep the workshop in good condition
Basic rules and laws to make sure a vehicle is safe and roadworthy
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
You will have the ability to:
Remove and refit vehicle parts
Complete written records of practical tasks
Complete a range of services, inspect and prepare a vehicle for road worthiness
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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
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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.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
On completion you could move on to a Level 2 qualification, begin an apprenticeship or work towards roles such as a trainee vehicle technician or workshop assistant.
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Entry Requirements for new students
Four GCSEs at Grade 2 or an Entry Level 3 qualification in a related subject
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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.
