If you are serious about developing your skills in vehicle refinishing and want to take your knowledge to a professional level this course is designed for you. You will gain the practical experience and technical awareness needed to progress confidently within the automotive repair industry.
You will train in realistic workshop environments learning how to prepare both metal and pre-painted surfaces, apply fillers and foundation materials and carry out repairs to minor paint defects. As your skills develop you will focus on achieving a high-quality finish while understanding the importance of precision, safety and attention to detail. Alongside your hands-on learning you will explore key aspects of working in a garage, including health and safety and workplace expectations.
You will also continue to strengthen your maths and English ensuring you are fully prepared for employment or further study. Work experience opportunities will help you apply your skills in real-world settings and build your confidence.
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What will I study?
The units you will study are likely to include:
Core units:
Health, safety and good housekeeping
? Maintaining good working relationships and using effective communication skills
Specialist units:
Tools, equipment and measuring devices
? Refinishing tools and equipment
? Masking Vehicles and Components
? Application of Foundation Materials
? Preparing Vehicle Panels and Pre-Painted Surfaces
? Repairing Minor Paint Defects
All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.
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Who is this course for?
This engaging and motivating course is designed for those who have a strong interest in learning about Vehicle Refinishing and techniques used in the automotive sector.
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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:
Types, functions and safe use of tools, equipment and measuring devices used in vehicle refinishing
Characteristics and correct use of refinishing tools and equipment including spray guns, compressors and drying systems
Principles and techniques of masking vehicles and components to protect surfaces during refinishing
Types and purposes of foundation materials (e.g. primers, fillers, sealers) and their application processes
Methods for preparing vehicle panels and pre-painted surfaces including sanding, cleaning and surface conditioning
Common minor paint defects (e.g. runs, orange peel, contamination) and their causes
Techniques and materials used to repair minor paint defects effectively
Health, safety and environmental considerations when using materials, tools and equipment
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
You will have the ability to:
Select, use, and maintain appropriate tools, equipment and measuring devices safely and effectively
Operate refinishing tools and equipment to achieve consistent, high-quality results
Mask vehicles and components accurately to protect surrounding areas during refinishing processes
Apply foundation materials correctly in line with manufacturer specifications
Prepare vehicle panels and pre-painted surfaces to an industry-standard finish prior to refinishing
Identify and assess minor paint defects accurately
Repair minor paint defects using appropriate techniques (e.g. flatting, polishing, localised refinishing)
Work efficiently while maintaining quality and minimising waste
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Behaviours
What is required?
What is required?
Attention to detail to ensure high-quality preparation and finishing outcomes
A strong commitment to working safely and always following procedures
Responsibility for the care and maintenance of tools and equipment
A methodical and organised approach to preparation and refinishing tasks
Pride in workmanship and achieving a professional standard of finish
A proactive approach to identifying and resolving defects or issues
Effective time management and efficient working practices
Environmental awareness, including minimising waste and correct disposal of materials
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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 this course can lead to a Level 3 qualification, an apprenticeship or roles such as trainee paint technician, vehicle refinisher or body repair operative.
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Entry Requirements for new students
Four GCSEs at Grade 3 or IMI Level 1 Diploma in Automotive Refinishing plus GCSE English and maths at Grade 1-3.
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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.