School leaver

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

What’s it all about?

Kickstart your journey in the automotive industry with our Level 1 Vehicle Maintenance course. Tailored for students passionate about cars, this program lays the foundational skills necessary for a successful career. You'll gain hands-on experience in vehicle systems and learn from professionals about routine maintenance, system inspections, and basic repairs.
Our facilities provide the perfect environment to hone your skills, ensuring you not only understand the theory but can apply it practically. Whether aiming for a technician role or planning further studies, this course equips you with the knowledge and confidence to progress in this dynamic field.

To apply for this course you will need at least one GCSE at grade G.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You will be required to purchase Sunderland College Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). This will consist of branded coveralls/polo shirt and work trousers, and safety boots.

Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.

At Level 1, our courses are designed to lay a solid foundation without the requirement of a work placement, allowing you to focus fully on mastering the fundamentals of your chosen field. As you progress to Level 2 and Level 3, we encourage you to enhance your learning experience and boost your career prospects through targeted work placements. These opportunities are crafted to complement your studies and provide practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting, preparing you to excel in a career you are passionate about.

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:

• 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 modules you will study on this course include:

- Health & Safety
- Roles & Responsibilities within the Automotive Environment
- Engine Mechanical & Lubrication Systems
- Engine Cooling Systems
- Spark Ignition Systems
- Braking Systems
- Wheel & Tyre Systems
- Engineering & Fabrication

What’s next?

Upon completing the Level 1 course, students can elevate their expertise with our Level 2 Light Vehicle Maintenance, progressing into more complex systems and diagnostics.

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

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

Why choose Sunderland College?

94% Overall pass rate for T Levels

2022-23

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024

98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves

NSS, 2024

We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus