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Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Tonbridge

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Tonbridge. Classes run at Hadlow College, full-time during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll cover vehicle systems theory and hands-on practical skills, working at a challenging level across both classroom and workshop settings. The course also involves participation with the college's Oval Race Team, giving you direct experience in a competitive motorsport environment. It covers the technical knowledge needed for the retail motor industry and opens routes into higher education.

Who this course is for

This course aims to provide the technical knowledge and skills required by today’s Motorsport or retail Motor Industry, with the required knowledge to progress to Higher Education or University as an option.

You will cover the theory for vehicle systems and associated practical skills. This qualification involves both theory and practical learning at a challenging level. Participation is expected with our own college run Oval Race Team, we would also encourage students to volunteer with local race teams for further experience.

You will study BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Motorsport), which comprises of 4 Mandatory and 13 Additional units.

Our specialist staff will support you as you work in the realistic workplace setting of our workshops. This course includes Motorsport specific units, and project work on our own race car, both in the workshop and as support at race events.

  • Fault diagnosis and repair
  • Mathematics for technicians
  • Maths and Science.
  • Vehicle systems - engine, transmission, starting and charging, petrol fuel injection, electronic ignition, steering, brakes and suspension
  • Motorsport workshop practices
  • Motorsport vehicle preparation
  • Engineering drawing for technicians
  • Fabrication processes
  • Professional practice and logistics for Motorsport

What you will learn

  • You'll study the theory behind vehicle systems including engines, brakes, and electrical components.
  • You'll develop practical skills in light vehicle maintenance and repair.
  • You'll apply diagnostic techniques to identify faults in vehicle systems.
  • You'll learn how motorsport and retail motor industry standards shape vehicle servicing.
  • You'll gain experience working with a college-run race team in a competitive environment.
  • You'll build the technical knowledge needed to progress to higher education or university.

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom theory with practical workshop sessions. You'll be assessed through a mix of written assignments, practical tasks, and knowledge tests aligned to the IMI qualification. Both theory and practical elements are assessed throughout the year. Attendance and active participation, including involvement with the college's Oval Race Team, are expected as part of the course.

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: servicing and repairing cars in a garage or dealership
  • MOT tester: inspecting vehicles for roadworthiness certification
  • Diagnostic technician: using specialist tools to identify vehicle faults
  • Motorsport mechanic: preparing and maintaining race or rally vehicles
  • Service advisor: supporting customers and technicians at a dealership
  • Fleet maintenance technician: keeping commercial or company vehicles roadworthy

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Certificate or Diploma in Automotive Management: moves you into supervisory or management roles in the motor industry.
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Automotive Engineering: a university-level step for those wanting to go deeper into engineering principles.
  • Automotive apprenticeship at Level 3 or above: combines paid work with structured training at a garage or manufacturer.
Apply on northkent.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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