Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich – One Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time at One Sixth Form College, five days a week during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grades 9 to 3, including Maths and English at grade 3. The course runs for one year and covers the principles of light vehicle maintenance and repair. You'll work on engines, electrical systems, brakes, and other vehicle components.

Who this course is for

16-19

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at 9-3 to include GCSE Mathematics and English at grade 3.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how petrol and diesel engines work and how to carry out basic maintenance.
  • You'll develop skills in diagnosing and repairing braking systems.
  • You'll understand vehicle electrical and electronic systems.
  • You'll learn how to service steering and suspension components.
  • You'll study transmission systems and how to identify faults.
  • You'll follow health and safety procedures used in automotive workshops.
  • You'll learn how to use diagnostic tools and workshop equipment safely.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on practical work in a workshop environment. Assessment combines written assignments and practical tasks that test your ability to carry out vehicle maintenance and repair procedures. The IMI qualification is assessed through a combination of coursework and practical assessments. You'll also take part in work experience, which requires mandatory health and safety checks confirmed at interview.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to provide your own steel toe-capped safety boots and overalls, which cost around £30. There are additional costs during the year for educational trips. Work experience will require mandatory health and safety checks, and the costs for these will be confirmed at interview. One Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Car mechanic. Service and repair vehicles at a garage or dealership.
  • Vehicle technician. Diagnose and fix faults using specialist equipment.
  • MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
  • Service advisor. Support customers and coordinate workshop jobs.
  • Tyre and exhaust technician. Fit and replace tyres, exhausts, and brakes.
  • Fleet maintenance technician. Keep company vehicle fleets roadworthy.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (VRQ). The natural next step for a car mechanic qualification, and a route toward working as a fully qualified vehicle technician.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. The work-based NVQ route, often completed alongside employment at a garage or dealership.
  • IMI Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA). A professional assessment that demonstrates competence to employers in the automotive sector.

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