Free Level 1 Car Mechanic Course in Chichester – Chichester College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Car Mechanic Course in Chichester. Classes run at Chichester College, full-time during the day. This is a focused, year-long route into automotive maintenance. You'll build practical and technical skills covering how vehicles work, how to diagnose faults, and how to carry out repairs. The course covers both knowledge and hands-on work, giving you a solid foundation for employment in the motor trade. You'll need to attend an interview before starting, and you'll work toward GCSE-equivalent Maths and English alongside the main qualification if you haven't already achieved them.

Who this course is for

Looking for a career in the motor cycle industry or just have a passion for motor cycles? This course is designed to provide you with both the knowledge and practical experience required for you to progress towards employment and/or career progression in the motorcycle industry.

Entry requirements

You will have an interest and enthusiasm for motorcycles. If you have not achieved at least GCSE grade 4 (C) or above in Maths and English Language or the equivalent functional skill you will need to work towards this alongside your main qualification. You will have 85% attendance to all aspects of your study programme. You will be required to attend an interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll identify and describe the main systems in a vehicle, including engine, transmission, and braking.
  • You'll carry out basic vehicle inspections and safety checks.
  • You'll use workshop tools and equipment correctly and safely.
  • You'll diagnose common faults using practical and systematic methods.
  • You'll carry out routine servicing and maintenance tasks.
  • You'll follow health and safety procedures in a workshop environment.
  • You'll record and communicate technical information accurately.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on practical work in a workshop setting. Assessment is a mix of practical tasks and knowledge-based work. You'll be assessed on your ability to carry out maintenance procedures correctly and demonstrate your understanding of automotive systems. Regular attendance is required, with a minimum of 85% expected across your study programme.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician apprentice: entry-level workshop role servicing and repairing vehicles.
  • Automotive service advisor: customer-facing role in a dealership or garage.
  • Tyre and exhaust technician: specialist fitting and replacement work.
  • Motorcycle mechanic: maintenance and repair of motorcycles and scooters.
  • MOT tester trainee: working toward the DVSA-approved MOT tester qualification.
  • Parts advisor: identifying and supplying vehicle parts in a trade or retail setting.

What you could study next

A Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair is the natural next step. It deepens your technical skills and moves you closer to working as a qualified vehicle technician. From there, a Level 3 qualification or an apprenticeship can lead to IMI-recognised technician status, which many employers in the motor trade look for when hiring.

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