Course Overview
This course will introduce you to the basic topics involved in the servicing and maintenance of vehicles and different engine types and will provide you with the initial knowledge and skills required to gain employment within the industry.
This course usually takes place over three days per week, and you can expect to work on a range of systems: from practice engines and gearboxes to genuine cars (working on vehicles belonging to students and tutors) in our industry standard workshop.
You will also gain the transferable skills on this programme, such as managing money, ordering parts, problem-solving, and communicating with customers.
The department organises a variety of trips throughout the year, for example, go-karting at Cumbria Karting and a visit to the Motorsport Show at NEC Birmingham. Work experience in local businesses is also offered.
All of our learners will be given support with their English and Maths skills where relevant to their main programme. Those students who have not yet achieved a grade 4 at GCSE in these subjects, will continue to work towards these essential qualifications at a level suited to them.
Topics include:
Engine systems; Chassis systems; Brakes; Steering; Suspension; Wheels and tyres; Transmission; Electrical
; Routine maintenance; and Basic engineering skills.
Your understanding of motor vehicle technology will be assessed via two online exams - the first in November and the second in April/May. The practical work will be assessed by direct observation and job cards, which are written up.
In the workshop, you will be observed and assessed carrying out practical tasks set by the workshop assessors. A portfolio is compiled during the year course showing all the Exams and Workshop Tasks completed, and this will be externally assessed by City & Guilds. Successful completion of the course will result in you achieving a Level 1 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair.
Entry Requirements
You need to demonstrate that you are working at Entry Level 3/GCSE Level 1 (or above) in Maths and English. An interview will be required, and initial assessments/transition visits may form part of the offer process.
If you have taken an alternative educational route and wish to discuss entry to this programme, please contact the college to discuss your individual circumstances.
After Your Course
After you complete the course, you can progress onto the Level 2 full-time course, an apprenticeship, or you may gain employment at a main dealership, specialist garage or engineering establishment.
Fees
£1250.00
The fee displayed is the course fee. Course fees are per year for full-time & degree-level courses and per course for part-time courses.
There may be other costs associated with this course, e.g. kit, equipment, books, trips etc. Financial support may be available to support you with these. See the Student Money pages for more information.
Courses fees
The current full-time & degree-level fee information is related to the 2023/24 academic year.
Entry Level, Level 1 & Level 2 Courses
You may qualify for financial support to cover the cost of a government-funded qualification if any of the below apply to you:
- Have an annual salary of less than £20,319.
- Receive an eligible means-tested benefit, e.g. JSA, ESA or Universal Credit.
- Are aged 16-18 on 31/08/23 and are not studying at another school/college.
- Are aged 19 or over on 31/08/23 and do not already have a Level 1, 2 or 3 qualification.
- Have a household income under £35,000 and are in financial hardship.
See the Student Money pages for more information.
