Vehicle Accident Repair Level 1

This practical automotive course provides an introduction to both vehicle maintenance and repair, and vehicle accident repair. Through hands-on workshop activities, learners develop essential technical skills, safe working practices and industry knowledge across mechanical, body and paint disciplines. The programme is ideal for those interested in starting a career within the automotive industry and provides a strong foundation for further study, apprenticeships or employment.

Course Info
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Vehicle Accident Repair Level 1
Qualification: IMI Level 1 Certificate in Vehicle Accident Repair
LevelLevel 1
LocationColchester
DurationOne year
Study ModeFull-Time
Campus / Adult Skills CentreColchester Campus
Start DateSeptember 2027
Fee(s)16-18 year old study programme: Free
Awarding/Validation BodyIMI
Course Content

You will develop a broad range of automotive skills covering both vehicle mechanical maintenance and vehicle accident repair. In the workshop, you will learn how to carry out routine vehicle inspection and maintenance tasks, use tools and equipment safely, and gain an understanding of vehicle systems and components. You will also learn body repair and paint preparation techniques, including panel preparation, repair processes and refinishing activities.

Alongside practical skills, you will develop your understanding of health and safety, environmental responsibilities, teamwork and professional standards expected within the automotive industry. By the end of the course, you will have gained valuable experience across multiple automotive disciplines, helping you identify future career pathways within the sector.

Course Content

Vehicle Accident Repair may include:

  • Health and safety in automotive environments
  • Automotive tools, equipment and workshop practices
  • Vehicle inspection techniques
  • Routine vehicle maintenance
  • Engine, steering, braking and suspension fundamentals
  • Vehicle electrical system awareness
  • Introduction to vehicle accident repair
  • Body panel preparation and repair
  • Paint and refinishing preparation techniques
  • Safe use of body repair materials and equipment
  • Environmental sustainability in automotive workshops
  • Employability skills and industry expectations
  • Practical workshop projects across mechanical and body repair disciplines
Entry Requirements

3 GCSEs (9-2) including English and Maths (or Level 1 Functional Skills equivalent) and an interview.

 

Course Progression

Learners can progress onto a Level 2 course, or an Automotive Apprenticeship.

 

Career Opportunities

Successful completion can lead to roles such as Vehicle Technician, Autocare Technician, Vehicle Body Repair Apprentice, Paint and Refinish Apprentice, as well as a range of other careers within the automotive retail and repair sector.

Fees and Finance

Students’ college education is funded for three academic years after leaving secondary school in year 11. Please click the button below which will apply to your age on the 31st August 2027 in order to find out more information about fees and finance relating to your course.

This is a 16-18 years old study programme only.

Disclaimer

All fees, prices and funding information shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2025-26 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change due to factors outside of our control. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

Courses fees are generally not confirmed for September until June / July due to the above factors.

The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.