Skip to main content

Course Overview

 

This course is a L1 Certificate, it extends learners' knowledge of different elements related to the Automotive industry and provides the skills that any aspiring technician requires. It allows the candidate to progress at their own pace and is designed for ages 16-18, those wishing to pursue a career or an apprenticeship in the Automotive industry.

This course is a 1-year full-time course which you will need to attend 3 days a week for 35 weeks.

Level 1 Certificate in Automotive Maintenance (IMI)

  • Health and Safety in the Workplace
  • Tools, Equipment, and Consumable Materials for Vehicle Maintenance 
  • Engine Operation and Components
  • Spark Ignition System Components and Maintenance   
  • Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
  • Compression-Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
  • Exhaust System Components and Maintenance 
  • Suspension System Components and Maintenance 
  • Braking System Components and Maintenance 
  • Wheel and Tyre Construction and Maintenance 

 

These units are practical and theory-based with approximately a 50/50 split between workshop and theory lesson. 

Extension topics include:

  • Introduction to Low Carbon Technologies
  • Preparation to Become a Vehicle Driver
  • Lubrication System Components and Maintenance
  • Vehicle inspections

 

 

 

The course is designed to provide the foundation knowledge needed for a career in the motor industry for those without experience working with vehicles or tools this provides you with the starting platform for your journey into the Automotive industry.

Students must be 16-18 years old

New students will have an interview/placement test before starting their course to ensure that they are placed at the correct level.

You will need to achieve GCSE grades D-G including English and maths grades 3-1. Alternatively, successful completion of a Foundation Entry Level 3 qualification and have achieved an Entry Level 3 Functional Skill in English and maths.

Learning will take place in both the classroom and in our workshops, where additional assessments will be set throughout the duration of the programme.

Assessment will take place through observations in our workshops and through completion of a portfolio of evidence.

  • Practical observations
  • Portfolio of evidence to show your competence and understanding of the qualification and skills

All students are expected to complete a period of work experience, your tutor will assist with this.

Progression at The College to the IMI Level 2 Automotive course or join our Apprenticeship programme in the Automotive industry.

Potential jobs after completing Level 1 and Level 2 courses also include Light Vehicle Service Technician, Parts Advisor, Tyre Technician, MOT Vehicle Examiner, or Workshop Controller.

Please see the link below to the IMI's Careers page.

http://www.autocity.org.uk/index.php/cars/ 

You will need to provide suitable overalls and safety boots which must always be worn at all times in the workshops, you will need to bring pens and an A4 notebook to keep a record of your learning.

Students will be expected to complete an additional two hours minimum of self-study each week.

Students will be required to complete an additional two hours minimum of self-study each week through the IMI E-portfolio 

For more information, please contact our Automotive Engineering Administrator at harrisonm2@bpc.ac.uk or 01202 205754 

 

Awarding Body:
IMI

Curriculum Area:
Engineering - Automotive Marine Boatbuilding and Composite

Course Options

Start Date

Wed 3rd September 2025

Attendance

Full-time

Duration

1 Years

Location

Poole Campus