This course provides learners with a practical introduction to automotive maintenance and repair. It is designed to build basic knowledge and hands-on skills needed to work safely in a vehicle workshop. Learners will develop an understanding of routine vehicle maintenance, basic mechanical components, tools and equipment, and safe working practices, while gaining confidence in a real workshop environment.
The course is suitable for learners who have an interest in the motor vehicle industry and want to progress to further study or an apprenticeship in automotive maintenance and repair. It is ideal for those who are new to the subject and want to develop practical skills alongside employability behaviours such as teamwork, communication, and professional conduct.
Modules will include:
The units covered directly link to the current apprenticeship standards so you’ll gain the knowledge and skills required to progress to an apprenticeship if you choose.
You will also study English and Maths if required during your study programme.
You should have passed at least one GCSE and gained at least GCSE grade 2 in Maths & English or be working towards a Level 1 Functional Skills. Completion of an initial assessment will also be required.
If you are 19+ and don’t meet the requirements, you will be assessed on relevant experience and skills.
An interview with a member of the teaching team is required, you will also be asked to complete an initial assessment in maths and English, and various industry specific tests. This will allow us to assess your suitability to the course advice and guidance will be available throughout the application process.
You are assessed through a mix of practical and written tasks designed to showcase your developing skills and understanding of light vehicle maintenance.
Assessment is continuous throughout the course, giving you plenty of opportunities to demonstrate progress and build confidence.
Together, these methods ensure you are fully supported and can clearly demonstrate your readiness to progress to the next level.
As part of your course, you will be given the opportunity to take up a work placement with one of our employer partners to get a taste of the world of work and to further enhance your skills and knowledge.
Over 90% of our learners progress onto the next level or secure apprenticeships with local employers.
You’ll study in our state-of-the-art Skills Academy for Automotive, Engineering, Manufacturing and Logistics on Team Valley in Gateshead. This academy is fully equipped with dedicated vehicle maintenance workshops, body workshop and paint workshop.
You will be required to buy blue overalls and steel toe cap boots, these can be purchased at a discounted rate through the college.
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college.
We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
Our specialist teams can help with:
During this course we ensure you develop employability skills and gain relevant experience, this qualification is designed to prepare students for future employment in the automotive sector giving them the knowledge and skills to progress onto an apprenticeship standard with an employer or further develop these skills on one of our level 2 courses.
This course is free to those aged under 19 years old.
Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.
For one to one advice, contact our friendly team who will assess your individual circumstances and give you the right information.
You can contact them on Call 0191 490 2430 or [email protected]?or via Live Chat. Or pop along to one of our Enrolment Events.
See here for more information, pop into one of our enrolment events, call us on 0191 490 4627.
Most people aged 19 years and over can qualify for free or reduced price course fees and there are grants and bursaries you can apply for to help cover the costs of coming to college, depending on your circumstances.
If you already have a full level 3 qualification and are aged 19 years over, you can apply for an Advanced Learning Loan or pay the fee upfront in full and qualify for a 10% discount.
You can get more information at our enrolment events, by calling 0191 490 0300 or email us at [email protected]
Whatever support you need, we’re here for you and will make sure you get the most out of your time at college. We have expert teams in place to look after every single one of our students.
To contact our dedicated Learning Support team email [email protected] or head to Live Chat
Knowledge
Mechanical: Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Administration and Management: Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Median Salary
£40,521
Averge Qualifications
English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
£43,884
Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Physics: Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
£28,703
Public Safety and Security: Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
£37,303
Building and Construction: Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
£35,042
Production and Processing: Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
£45,694
Transportation: Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
£42,165
Psychology: Knowledge of human behaviour and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioural and affective disorders.
£21,718
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
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Monday 16 March 2026
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View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.