Free Level 1 Automotive Maintenance Course in Tonbridge – Hadlow College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Automotive Maintenance Course in Tonbridge. Full-time daytime classes run at Hadlow College, in brand new motor vehicle workshops. Over one year, you'll cover the repair and servicing of road vehicles, including health and safety, vehicle systems, welding, auto electrics, and assembling and dismantling components. The course also includes Functional Skills within industrial studies. You'll have an initial assessment to make sure this level 1 automotive maintenance qualification is the right starting point for you.

Who this course is for

This Level 1 course is a competence-based scheme, with some examinations, covering all aspects of the repair and servicing of motor sport vehicles. Units include: Health and Safety The Vehicle Systems Assembling and Dismantling Auto Electrics Functional Skills within Industrial Studies

This course includes Motorsport specific learning opportunities, and project work on our own race car(s), both in the workshop and as support at future race events where possible.

Our Study Programme also includes opportunities for you to develop your English and Maths skills as required.

What you will learn

  • You'll apply health and safety practices in a motor vehicle workshop environment.
  • You'll identify and work with key vehicle systems.
  • You'll carry out welding techniques used in vehicle repair.
  • You'll assemble and dismantle vehicle components.
  • You'll work on auto electrics, including basic electrical systems on road vehicles.
  • You'll develop Functional Skills through practical industrial studies.

How you will learn

This is a competence-based course with some examinations. You'll learn through hands-on practical work in the workshop alongside classroom-based study. Assessment covers both your practical skills and your understanding of vehicle systems and repair processes. Some units are assessed through written or online examinations.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician apprentice: entry-level role in a garage or dealership.
  • Tyre and exhaust fitter: fitting and replacing tyres, exhausts, and brakes.
  • MOT tester trainee: working toward an MOT testing licence under supervision.
  • Parts advisor: identifying and supplying vehicle parts in a dealership.
  • Roadside recovery assistant: supporting breakdowns and vehicle recovery.
  • Car valeter: vehicle preparation and finishing in a commercial setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Operations: the natural next step, covering more advanced servicing and repair skills and opening the door to a motor vehicle technician apprenticeship.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Accident Repair: if you're drawn to bodywork and refinishing rather than mechanical repair.
  • Motor vehicle technician apprenticeship: combines on-the-job training with a Level 3 qualification, the standard route into a qualified technician role.

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