School leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course Location: Course Type:
September 1 Year Level 3 Full-Time City Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Transform your passion for vehicle painting into a highly sought-after skill with our programme. Designed to take your expertise to the next level, this qualification focuses on the principles and techniques used by professionals in the accident repair industry. You’ll learn to apply the latest repair methods, working with tools and materials to achieve flawless finishes on vehicles. Gain hands-on experience and build confidence in areas such as colour matching, paint application, and surface preparation.
With guidance from industry experts, you’ll develop the precision and attention to detail needed to thrive in a fast-paced, rewarding environment. Whether you dream of working in top-tier bodyshops or running your own business, this qualification sets you on the path to success. You’ll leave with the technical know-how and confidence to take on complex projects and excel in a career that’s both creative and dynamic.

You will need a relevant Level 2 Automotive qualification.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You will need to provide your own stationery and will be given the opportunity to take part in trips and visits.

The assessment is made up of three components which are set by IMI Awards:

- Practical tasks
- Online testing
- Written assignment/coursework

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

The Level 3 qualification covers both theory and practical aspects, including:

- The preparation and application of procedures
- The diagnosis and rectifying of paint faults
- Working with plastic materials and components
- Preparing metal and pre-painted surfaces
- Establishing paint defects
- Applying topcoats and completing refinishing
- Colour matching

Learners also gain a broad knowledge and understanding of health and safety in the workplace and other skills associated with working in a garage.

This qualification also forms the knowledge component (technical certificate) of the IMI SSC Accident Repair Advanced Apprenticeship Framework (for Paint).

What’s next?

Upon completing this qualification, students are equipped with the advanced skills needed to step into a thriving career in accident repair. Opportunities include working as a professional paint technician in leading bodyshops or pursuing roles in specialist refinishing and customisation.

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93% of our students have progressed to employment, university or further study

(*Destination data, all students, 2023-24)

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