Motor Vehicle Department

Motor Vehicle students will pursue Institute of Motor Industry Level 1 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Automotive Maintenance qualifications. These qualifications cover the basic technical needs for today’s motor vehicle maintenance industry and students will gain both practical and theory based skills to build a comprehensive portfolio of their work. Beginning with health and safety, tools, equipment and materials and their uses, students will go on to learn a variety of skills to enhance their work and life skills.

Students will cover the following units as part of their studies:

  • Health and safety in the Work place
  • Locating, interpreting and using technical information
  • Applying engineering techniques in an automotive environment
  • Preparation to become a driver
  • Reducing risks when driving vehicles
  • Health and safety practices in maintenance and repair environment
  • Tools, equipment and consumable materials for vehicle maintenance
  • Vehicle steering and suspension components and maintenance
  • Light vehicle braking system components and maintenance
  • Light vehicle wheels and tyre construction and maintenance
  • Light vehicle exhaust system and components maintenance
  • Lighting system maintenance
  • Vehicle system maintenance and joining methods

Both of these courses are delivered through separate modules covering a theory and practical look at each section. An E-portfolio is completed to a set standard to achieve the qualifications.

The Award qualification provides a stepping stone for learners who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills onto the Level 1 Certificate or Diploma in Automotive Maintenance.  It can also supplement their progress to GCSEs and other appropriate destinations, such as apprenticeships and employment.

Students accessing the Motor Vehicle Department will need overalls and safety boots to equip them for workshop practical sessions. Students are not permitted into the workshop without personal protective equipment and it is their responsibility to look after and care for these. Parents may source protective equipment however this must be fit for purpose (staff at Wheels Vocational and Life Skills Centre will be more than happy to advise). Alternatively these can be purchased from the School at a cost of £25 for both overalls and standard safety boots.