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This study programme is designed for 16 to 19 year olds (aged 19 to 24 for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan).

All courses take place on our Sixth Form Campus, therefore any applicants aged 25+ or over who do not have an Education, Health and Care Plan may be required to complete a DBS check as part of the conditional offer to West Suffolk College. The cost to the applicant for a DBS is £30.00 and the DBS check can be completed through the college.

Please visit our Adult EducationDegrees and Employer section for alternative courses.

About the course

This engaging and motivating Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ) is generally aimed at learners 14-19 years old, who have a keen interest to learn about the maintenance of various types of transport and the job roles that are available within the Automotive Industry.

Assessment takes a practical approach and includes many visual questioning techniques, which will stimulate and interest the learner. Learning outcomes are assessed by a variety of task-based assessment, observation, oral questioning, and portfolio evidence. Assignments include both exam and coursework and are designed to provide a fun and interesting learning environment.

This Level 1 qualification is designed to help learners aged 14-19 years old to develop technical skills and insights along with key personal and social skills, behaviours, and attitudes to build confidence. Successful students will achieve this by using practical tasks, set in a practical automotive context. The tasks challenge learners to tackle new activities and individually and as part of a group. They will enhance learners' social interaction and help them to develop skills to prepare them as they look for, obtain, and maintain employment. The qualification prepares learners to further develop their knowledge and skills across a variety of specialist areas to prepare them for further studies and potentially enter into a job role they desire.

You will learn how to work effectively and safely. In addition to the practical skills you will develop, you will also improve your employability through the enhancement of your communication, numeracy and information technology abilities.

What You Study

  • Industry relevant Health and Safety practices
  • Knowledge/skills required in the automotive working environment
  • Specialist units e.g., Mechanical & Electrical Repair & Maintenance
  • Essential workplace tools, equipment and materials

Entry requirements

Grade 3 English and Grade 3 Mathematics (or equivalent)

If you are able to demonstrate a keen interest and aptitude for working with vehicles and are willing and have the ability to develop your practical and hands-on skills, you may also be considered as a learner.

Please note: you will be required to complete a successful interview.

Qualifications

IMI Level 1 Certificate in Automotive Maintenance 

What you'll learn (core modules)

The units covered on this course are: 

 

L1AM01

Introduction to Health and Safety in the Workplace

 

L1AM02

Introduction to Common Tools and Equipment for Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

 

L1AM03 Engine Operation and Components

 

L1AM04 Lubrication System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM07 Spark Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM08 Compression Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM10 Steering System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM11 Suspension System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM12 Braking System Components and Maintenance

 

L1AM13 Wheel and Tyre Construction and Maintenance

 

Benefits, skills and character strengths

Ownership of the course units and tasks. 

Building confidence with tools used in industry. 

Building positive relationships and working as a team. 

How will I be assessed?

Practical tasks

Online Test

Written assignments/ questions.

Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)

Classroom and workshop

Where will the course take me?

Subject to successful interview and completion of this course, you may progress to Level 2 qualification or supplement their progress to GCSEs and other appropriate destinations. 

Completion of this course of study and further courses can provide a stepping stone and lead to modern apprenticeships or employment as a trainee in a wide range of vehicle and technology enabled sectors. 

Many students will progress into the Level 2 Vehicle Maintenance course within the department.

Will I need any materials or equipment?

Overalls - £60

Safety Boots - £20-£50

Safety goggles - £5

Torch - £5

Note pads - £2

Stationary - £5

Camera/ phone - NA

How much will it cost?

From £100

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Apply online. You will be invited to discuss your application with us and your application and interview will form part of the selection process.

Days & times

Starting September 2023


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