Automotive Level 1 / 2 / 3

This three-year programme will give you the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to work in the current automotive industry.

In year one you will study an introduction to the motor vehicle industry, where we lay the foundation on which you can build a career in various aspects of the trade. You will gain vital life skills for employability and transferable skills which you can take forward into many areas of engineering.

In year 2 you will build upon the skills and knowledge developed in your first year, leading to the completion of an industry recognised Level 2 IMI qualification. Students who join directly at year 2 will also be supported to progress onto Level 3 or straight into employment.

In year 3 you will focus on the diagnostic skills required in the automotive industry. You will gain skills and knowledge of complex systems and diagnostic processes, and on completion you will gain a Level 3 IMI qualification, which is a prerequisite to gain the MOT tester qualification.

You will study theory in a classroom, with modern rigs and resources, while practical lessons will be in our fully-equipped workshops, with a full MOT test lane and modern diagnostic equipment at our Lowestoft campus.

You will have access to the online learning platform LJ Create, where you will develop your understanding to become a skilled technician. You will be supported by our lecturers who still work within the industry and can provide you with the latest information regarding your future career.

You will need to achieve a minimum grade of 3 in English and maths to complete year 1 and a grade 4 in English and maths for year 2. Entry to year 3 is directly by completion of year 2.

Automotive can lead you to study a HNC/D Engineering course with the University of Suffolk at East Coast College or other universities. Some of our previous students have studied motorsport engineering degrees.

You can also progress into an apprenticeship or employment in careers such as a main dealer technician, MOT tester, mechanical engineer, motorsport engineer, automotive specialist, service advisor or offshore technician.