Our Level 1 programme offers an exciting introduction to the skills and knowledge needed to work in the automotive accident repair industry. This hands-on course allows learners to explore key areas of vehicle body repair, paint refinishing, and workshop practices in a real-world training environment.Students will develop essential practical abilities such as preparing vehicle panels, using body repair tools, understanding basic paint techniques, and working safely in a professional workshop. The course also builds confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, helping learners understand how modern vehicle repair businesses operate.This qualification provides an excellent foundation for progressing to higher-level automotive programmes and opens the door to future career pathways within the accident repair and refinishing sector.
Learners are assessed through a mix of practical and written tasks designed to showcase their developing skills and understanding of accident repair. Assessment is continuous throughout the course, giving students plenty of opportunities to demonstrate progress and build confidence.Assessment typically includes:
Together, these methods ensure learners are fully supported and can clearly demonstrate their readiness to progress to the next level.
Our teaching team are all industry experts with many years of experience working in the automotive sector.
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:
See here for more information, pop into one of our enrolment events, or call us on 0191 490 4627.
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 [email protected] or via Live Chat. Or pop along to one of our Enrolment Events.
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
JOIN OUR SPORTS ACADEMIES
Eight specialist sport academies, all offering first class training, coaching and playing opportunities for everyone, regardless of what you study.
Connect with our Academy socials:
Rail Track Maintenance Information Session
Tuesday 6 January 2026
PlanBEE Virtual Meet the Employers Event
Wednesday 7 January 2026
UPCOMING EVENTS.
Find out about all our upcoming events here. Simply sign up and come along.
View or download our course guide for 16-18 year olds.