Entry Level Car Maintenance and Repair Course in Rugby

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Entry Level Car Maintenance and Repair Course in Rugby. Classes run at Rugby College, full-time during the day. The course runs for one year. Tuition is free if you're 16 to 18 years old or hold an EHCP. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though waivers are available based on income or benefits. All students may be charged for materials, equipment, and trips. You'll cover a range of motor industry skills, exploring how vehicles work and how to carry out basic maintenance and repair tasks. This entry level car maintenance and repair qualification is awarded by IMI.

Who this course is for

This Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ) is designed to engage and motivate 14-19 year olds who are interested in learning about the automotive retail industry. The Diploma is ideally suited to 16-19 year old learners who enjoy the sector and wish to develop experience in a variety of motor industry skills, at a level suiting their ability. The inclusion of Level 1 optional units also allows learners the opportunity to progress to a higher level if they are able.

What you will learn

  • You'll identify the main components of a vehicle and understand how they work.
  • You'll carry out basic car maintenance tasks under supervision.
  • You'll learn safe working practices in an automotive environment.
  • You'll use tools and equipment correctly for repair and maintenance work.
  • You'll develop knowledge of the automotive retail industry.
  • You'll explore a variety of motor industry skills across different areas of vehicle work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in the classroom and workshop. Assessment is based on the work you produce and demonstrate throughout the course. There are no written exams for the core qualification. Your tutor will observe your practical skills and review your work as you progress through each unit.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Rugby College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle mechanic assistant. Support qualified mechanics with servicing and repairs.
  • Tyre and exhaust technician. Fit and replace tyres, exhausts, and related parts.
  • Car valeter. Clean and prepare vehicles to a professional standard.
  • Forecourt assistant. Fuel, clean, and carry out basic checks on vehicles.
  • Parts advisor. Help customers find the right parts in a motor factor or dealership.

What you could study next

  • Level 1 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. A natural next step that builds on the skills from this course and takes you deeper into vehicle systems.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. The qualification that leads toward working as a trained mechanic. Many employers look for this level when hiring.
  • IMI Level 2 NVQ in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. A work-based route that combines on-the-job training with a recognised qualification.

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