Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Gravesend

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start13 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Gravesend. Classes run at North Kent College Gravesend, full-time during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll cover the knowledge and skills needed for light vehicle maintenance and repair, working toward the IMI Level 3 car mechanic qualification. It also provides the knowledge component for the IMI Maintenance and Repair Advanced Apprenticeship framework, making it a strong step toward further vocational study or employment in the trade.

Who this course is for

This Level 3 qualification is designed to provide a standardised approach for the delivery and assessment of the knowledge and skills requirements. This VRQ also provides the knowledge requirements for its related VCQ, and forms the knowledge component of the IMI SSC Maintenance and Repair Advanced Apprenticeship framework (for Light Vehicle).

This VRQ offers an ideal step to the Vocational Competence Qualification (VCQ) for those who are employed, and wish to continue with their studies, as the knowledge at Level 3 meets that of the related VCQ. Achievers of this VRQ can use it as credit against the knowledge required for the corresponding VCQ.

This qualification also forms the knowledge component (technical certificate) of the IMI SSC Maintenance and Repair Advanced Apprenticeship framework (for the Light Vehicle).

This course includes the opportunity to take part in an industry placement in a sector relevant to your qualification and study programme. The placement will take place 1 or 2 days per week on the days when you are not in college studying. Industry placements are designed to give you the skills to start work at the end of your studies, progress into an apprenticeship, or to add to your UCAS statement.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the principles of light vehicle maintenance and repair
  • You'll study engine systems and how they function
  • You'll develop knowledge of electrical and electronic vehicle systems
  • You'll explore transmission, steering, and suspension systems
  • You'll understand braking systems and their maintenance requirements
  • You'll learn diagnostic techniques used in vehicle fault-finding
  • You'll cover health, safety, and workshop practices

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based teaching at North Kent College Gravesend. The course covers the knowledge requirements of the IMI VRQ framework. Assessment is through written and practical knowledge tests aligned to the IMI qualification standard. Your progress will be assessed throughout the year to make sure you meet the requirements of the Level 3 Diploma.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. North Kent College Gravesend will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician. Servicing and repairing cars at a garage or dealership
  • MOT tester. Carrying out statutory vehicle safety inspections
  • Diagnostic technician. Using specialist equipment to identify vehicle faults
  • Service advisor. Liaising between customers and workshop teams
  • Fleet maintenance technician. Keeping company or local authority vehicles roadworthy
  • Apprentice mechanic. Combining paid work with further vocational training

What you could study next

  • IMI Level 3 Vocational Competence Qualification (VCQ) in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. The natural next step if you move into employment, combining this knowledge with on-the-job competence assessment.
  • IMI Maintenance and Repair Advanced Apprenticeship. This course provides the knowledge component, so completing it puts you in a strong position to enter or continue an apprenticeship.
  • Level 4 qualifications in automotive management or advanced diagnostics, for those looking to move into supervisory or specialist roles.

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