Automotive

Automotive

READY TO APPLY?

WHY STUDY HERE

Macclesfield College is an award winning provider and our Automotive Department exemplifies this excellence with state of the art training facilities, including one of only six hydrogen training vehicles in the UK.

This unique setup offers you practical experience with the latest in sustainable automotive technology. Choose to study here and gain expert knowledge and skills that will distinguish you in the fast evolving automotive industry.

COURSES AVAILABLE

Entry Level: Introduction to Automotive Maintenance and Repair

Entry Level: Introduction to Automotive Maintenance and Repair

What will I study?

During this course, you will develop an understanding of basic vehicle maintenance and repair, exploring a range of practical skills including:
  • Introduction to vehicle systems and components
  • Basic engine maintenance
  • Wheels, tyres and braking systems
  • Vehicle checks and routine maintenance
  • Using automotive tools and equipment safely
  • Health and safety in the workshop

What career or further study opportunities will be available after completion?

On successful completion of this course, you may progress onto a Level 1 Automotive qualification, developing your skills further and working towards a career in the motor vehicle industry.
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What are the entry requirements for this course & what qualifications will I gain upon completion?

There are no formal GCSE entry requirements for this course. Entry is based on individual assessment, prior attainment and suitability for the programme. On successful completion, you will gain a IMI qualification in Automotive Maintenance and Repair.

How long does it take to finish the course?

This is a full time programme for one academic year.
Entry Level: Introduction to Automotive Maintenance and Repair
Level 1: Transport Maintenance
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Level 1: Transport Maintenance

What will I study?

During this course you will focus on a full range of units including but not limited to engine technology, chassis technology and routine maintenance. You will study the following units in a practical fashion with theory to support your learning:
  • Health and safety practices in vehicle maintenance
  • Tools, equipment and materials for vehicle maintenance
  • Spark ignition engines, components and operation
  • Compression ignition engine systems, components and operation
  • Engine liquid cooling and lubrication systems components and operation
  • Steering and suspension system components and maintenance
  • Vehicle braking system components and maintenance
  • Vehicle wheels and tyre construction
  • Vehicle exhaust systems components and maintenance
  • Vehicle driveline maintenance
  • Vehicle electrical foundation skills
You will cover the following elements:
  • Brake master cylinder
  • Front brake disc
  • McPherson Strut
  • Cylinder head removal
  • Compression testing
  • Wheel and tyre balancing
  • 2 Year/20,000 mile service
Alongside your main programme of study you will also study either GCSE or Functional Skills in English and maths if you have not achieved a GCSE grade 4 or above.

What career or further study opportunities will be available after completion?

This course will allow progression to a Level 2 course, study an Apprenticeship or straight into the industry in a variety of automotive based roles.
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What are the entry requirements for this course & what qualifications will I gain upon completion?

For this course you will typically need four GCSEs at grade 2 or above. On successful completion of this course you will gain an IMI Level 1 Certificate in Automotive Maintenance qualification.

How long does it take to finish the course?

This is a full-time programme for one academic year
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Level 1: Transport Maintenance
Level 2: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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Level 2: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

What will I study?

During this course you will focus on a full range of units including, but not limited to: intermediate engine technology, chassis technology and routine maintenance. You will study the following elements in a practical fashion with theory to support your learning:
  • Engine strip and rebuild
  • Suspension, steering and brake systems
  • Intermediate auxiliary electrical work
  • Comfort and convenience systems
  • Medium range fault finding and diagnostic skills
Alongside your main programme of study you will also study either GCSE or Functional Skills in English and maths if you have not achieved a GCSE grade 4 or above.

What career or further study opportunities will be available after completion?

This course will allow progression to Level 3 or an Apprenticeship or straight into the industry in a variety of automotive-based roles.
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What are the entry requirements for this course & what qualifications will I gain upon completion?

For this course you will typically need five GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including a grade 3/2 combination in English and maths. On successful completion of this course, you will gain an IMI Level 2 Diploma in Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance (Light Vehicle) qualification.

How long does it take to finish the course?

This is a full-time programme for one academic year.
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Level 2: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
Level 3: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

Level 3: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

What will I study?

During this course, you will develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in motor vehicle maintenance, repair and diagnostics, covering a range of areas including:
  • Advanced engine technology and diagnostics
  • Transmission and chassis systems
  • Suspension, steering and braking systems
  • Vehicle electrical and electronic systems
  • Fault finding and diagnostic techniques
  • Advanced vehicle servicing and maintenance
  You will develop your ability to identify, diagnose and repair faults across a range of vehicle systems, supported by technical theory and practical workshop activities.

What career or further study opportunities will be available after completion?

On successful completion of this course, you may progress into employment within the automotive industry, pursue an apprenticeship or continue onto higher level qualifications in automotive engineering and vehicle diagnostics.
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What are the entry requirements for this course & what qualifications will I gain upon completion?

For this course you will typically need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4/3 combination in English and maths, alongside successful completion of a relevant Level 2 Automotive qualification or relevant industry experience. On successful completion, you will gain a Level 3 qualification in Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance.

How long does it take to finish the course?

This is a full-time programme for one academic year.
Level 3: Motor Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

ASPIRATIONAL CAREERS

SKILLS REQUIRED FOR AUTOMOTIVE

TRIP/EMPLOYERS

Take part in exciting trips to leading Automotive centres and manufacturers, including a visit to the Autosport International Show and to Stellantis Performance Academy , where you’ll gain first hand experience in professional environments.

These visits offer networking opportunities with industry leaders and valuable insights into the sector. Experts will also deliver guest talks, providing practical advice and enhancing your learning experience.

UPCOMING EVENTS

North Cheshire East Pledge Careers Fair
Wednesday, 21st October 2026
4pm - 6pm
October Open Event
Thursday, 22nd October 2026
5.30pm - 7.30pm
January Open Event
Thursday, 21st January 2027
5:30pm - 7:00pm
November Open Event
Saturday, 21st November 2026
10:30am - 12:30pm

Discover Automotive at Macclesfield College

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