Free Level 1 Car Mechanic Course in Truro. Classes run at Truro College, full-time during the day. This course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old and a UK resident. You'll spend a year learning how to maintain and repair cars and vans, covering a wide range of automotive faults in a practical, hands-on setting. The course introduces you to the motor industry and gives you the chance to apply vehicle maintenance and repair skills directly. You'll need GCSE grade 2 or equivalent in Maths and English, though the college will consider all applicants at interview.
Who this course is for
The role of a car mechanic is to maintain and repair cars and vans to ensure that they are safe to be on our roads. This course is your first step to becoming a Service Vehicle Technician, capable of fixing a wide variety of automotive faults. This course is an introduction to a career as a car mechanic. You will gain an understanding of the motor industry and have an opportunity to apply vehicle maintenance and repair skills in a practical and realistic way. You will follow a programme of study that enables progression to further courses and employment within the motor industry. You will gain confidence by developing independent learning skills and will learn how vehicle maintenance and repair activities are carried out safely; you will also learn how important the role of a mechanic is to keeping so many different parts of the country operating smoothly.
Entry requirements
A Grade 2 or equivalent in GCSE Maths and English language or literature. Should you not achieve this you should still apply as each applicant will be invited to attend an interview with the course manager, all successful candidates will gain a place on the programme. A keen interest in the role of Vehicle Technician will be advantageous in pursuing this rewarding and well-paid career.
What you will learn
You'll learn how to carry out routine vehicle maintenance and safety checks.
You'll develop skills in diagnosing and repairing common automotive faults.
You'll understand how key vehicle systems work, including engines, brakes, and electrical components.
You'll apply practical repair techniques on cars and vans in a workshop environment.
You'll gain an understanding of how the motor industry operates.
You'll learn how to work safely and follow industry standards in an automotive setting.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom lessons and practical workshop sessions at Truro College. Assessment is based on practical tasks and assignments that test your ability to carry out vehicle maintenance and repair work. You'll be assessed on both your technical skills and your understanding of automotive systems throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro 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.
Car mechanic. Maintain and repair cars and light vehicles.
MOT tester trainee. Work toward testing vehicles for roadworthiness.
Service technician. Carry out scheduled servicing at a dealership.
Parts advisor. Support workshop teams with parts and stock.
Roadside recovery technician. Diagnose and fix vehicles at the roadside.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology. The natural next step for anyone pursuing a career as a car mechanic. Deepens your technical skills and moves you closer to professional technician level.
Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology. Required for skilled technician roles and supports progression toward a full apprenticeship or manufacturer-accredited training.
Apprenticeship in Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance. Combines paid work with structured training at Level 2 or Level 3.
