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Free Entry Level Car Maintenance and Repair Course in Northampton

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body
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About this course

Free Entry Level Car Maintenance and Repair Course in Northampton. Classes run at Northampton College, full-time during the day. No previous qualifications are needed to start. The course runs for one year and covers the foundations of vehicle technology, including engine systems, brakes, steering, suspension, and bodywork repair. You'll train in fully equipped workshops and classrooms. The course also includes Maths, English, and Digital Skills. Work experience is part of the programme. This is a practical entry level car maintenance and repair qualification that sets you up for further study or employment in the motor vehicle industry.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in the motor vehicle industry and wish to gain an Entry Level qualification in motor vehicle technology. This Light Vehicle pathway offers students the flexibility to explore a range of specialist areas, helping you to build a solid foundation for further study or future employment in the motor vehicle industry. Delivery & Assessment

Location: Taught in fully equipped workshops and classrooms

Theory: Delivered through classroom sessions Assignments Phase tests Online multiple-choice exam

Practical: Students complete pre-set tasks to meet assessment criteria, with outcomes recorded in a practical task workbook

Entry requirements

To start a Vocational Studies Programme you do not need any qualifications. Just the motivation to attend and take part!

What you will learn

  • You'll apply health and safety practices in a workshop environment.
  • You'll identify and use tools, equipment, and consumable materials for vehicle maintenance.
  • You'll inspect and work on engine, lubrication, and cooling systems.
  • You'll carry out tasks on ignition, fuel, and exhaust systems.
  • You'll work on steering, suspension, brakes, and tyres.
  • You'll practise bodywork skills including minor dent removal, body filler, masking, and applying aerosol paint.
  • You'll develop Maths, English, and Digital Skills alongside your practical training.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of practical workshop sessions and classroom theory. Assessment includes practical tasks recorded in a workbook, written assignments, phase tests, and an online multiple-choice exam. Theory is delivered in classroom sessions. Practical work is assessed against set criteria in fully equipped workshops.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You may need to purchase a kit and uniform, and there may be costs for trips. Details will be sent to you in June or July before you enrol.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician apprentice: entry route into a garage or dealership.
  • Car mechanic: how to become a mechanic starts with this foundation.
  • Tyre and exhaust fitter: hands-on role in a fast-fit centre.
  • Bodywork repair assistant: supporting paintwork and panel repairs.
  • Automotive parts advisor: advising customers on parts and repairs.
  • MOT assistant: supporting vehicle inspection work in a garage.

What you could study next

After this course, you could progress to a Level 1 or Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. A Level 2 qualification is the standard entry point for a motor vehicle technician apprenticeship. From there, a Level 3 NVQ in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is the qualification most employers look for in a fully qualified mechanic. Northampton College may offer some of these next steps directly.

Apply on northamptoncollege.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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