Key Facts

City and Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

This course is suitable for school leavers interested in working in the vehicle repair industry. It is also suitable for anyone with the aim of becoming a qualified mechanic/technician (subject to further qualifications).

Once qualified, the career options are endless. There are hundreds of garages, dealerships and maintenance depots in the area that need trained mechanics. You could run your own business, manage a garage or even specialise in modifying vehicles. If you are dreaming big, some of the top mechanics in Formula One are from the UK, so if you have ambitions of working in the fast lane, a good grounding will help you get there.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other. This is to ensure we can support you to be able to achieve well on the course.

    2 x GCSE in Maths and English Language grade 2/E.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish! Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    This course will start your journey to becoming a fully qualified mechanic or vehicle technician. It has an excellent balance of practical and theoretical lessons which will help you develop your skills in a realistic and well-equipped environment.

    This course is perfect for people who want to gain employment in the Motor Vehicle industry, and will also provide you with the knowledge required to perform basic maintenance checks, adjustments and component replacement on light vehicles. You will have the opportunity to gain (Functional Skills/GCSEs) that will be essential if you wish to complete an Apprenticeship at a later date. Assessment of the knowledge and skills you will gain is varied and includes: verbal questioning, observed tasks, written coursework and online tests.

    Modules included (but are not limited to):

    • Tools, Equipment and Materials for Vehicle Maintenance.
    • Health and Safety in the Automotive Environment.
    • Engine Systems.
    • Vehicle Braking Systems Components and Maintenance.
    • Routine Vehicle Maintenance Processes and Procedures on Vehicles.
    • Vehicle Wheels and Tyres Construction and Maintenance.
    • Steering and Suspension Systems Components and Maintenance.
  • Progression Next Steps


    Students may progress on to City and Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair or a Level 2 Apprenticeship subject to meeting the entry requirements, and/or related employment criteria for an Apprenticeship.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    If you would like to find out more about the Level 1 Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, please come along to one of our Open Days, or advice and guidance evenings and see what we can offer.

    You will require pens, pencils and folder for your class notes. You will need to purchase safety boots, and overalls which the college will provide.

    For further information please contact Paul Warnett in the School of STEP on email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.