This is a Level 2 vocational qualification which provides individuals with specialist technical knowledge and understanding and practical skills required to work in the light vehicle maintenance sector as a light vehicle service technician; alongside the development of wider transferable skills for use across the whole retail motor industry.

This qualification was developed with input from employers, professional bodies and training providers; and therefore, includes the core knowledge and skills required by the sector.

This qualification is for learners who have a keen interest in light vehicle maintenance and are looking to progress within this industry. It will provide them with the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills at the level suiting their ability at entry.

This qualification is a Technical Certificate at Level 2 and has been developed primarily for schools and colleges to deliver to learners aged in the 16-19 age group either on a full or part-time basis; however, it is also suitable for 19+ learners who wish to enter the sector. (The study of ‘A’ levels, such as Maths, Physics and English, would complement this qualification).

This Level 2 Technical Certificate has been designed to be used as an introductory qualification to develop some of the basic skills and knowledge required by employers in the retail automotive industry. This qualification will usually be taken alongside other programmes such as GCSEs or AS Levels and delivered over a one-year course of study.

The Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles is likely to be chosen as a progression from a Level 1 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance or a Level 1 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance. It may also be chosen to gain the skills and knowledge required to become a Light Vehicle Service Technician or for those who would like to progress into a Light Vehicle Apprenticeship.

100% of the vocational learning within this qualification relates to the light vehicle maintenance sector. Learners will develop essential transferable skills required within a number of job roles within the motor industry:

· Health, safety and good housekeeping

· Maintaining good working relationships and using effective communication skills

· Use of tools and measuring devices used in the automotive environment. Learners will also develop their specialist knowledge and skills in core light vehicle maintenance and repair topic areas (see examples below):

· Removing and replacing engine mechanical and lubrication systems

· Removing and replacing heating, cooling, fuel, ignition, air and exhaust systems

· Removing and replacing, chassis and electrical units and components

· Removing and replacing transmission and driveline units

· Carrying out routine vehicle maintenance

At the end of the qualification, learners will complete a core (synoptic) unit in which they will plan, prepare, carry out and report on routine light vehicle maintenance. This will demonstrate that they can identify and use effectively an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and knowledge from across the light vehicle maintenance and repair sector. It is a mandatory requirement that the learner will also engage with, and benefit from, meaningful employer involvement during the achievement of this unit.

Assessment The qualification is assessed using a range of methods appropriate for this level of technical qualification. Learners will gain their knowledge and skills in a mainly workshop based environment by carrying out tasks, which their assessors will observe. Learners will collect evidence of their skills and knowledge in a ‘portfolio of evidence’. In the mandatory topic areas learners will also be required to pass multiple choice questions, set and marked by the IMI, to prove their knowledge and understanding.

Achievement of this qualification is graded, pass, merit or distinction.

This qualification will support a learner’s progression to a Level 3 qualification in automotive and engineering related subjects, e.g. IMI Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance. It can also help their progress to an apprenticeship, such as the Institute of the Motor Industry Level 3 Apprenticeship in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, or to employment in the light vehicle maintenance sector as a trainee light vehicle service technician.

The automotive industry is so vast and wide-ranging that you’ll be able to find the right job, even if you’re not sure what it is when you start. You might choose to focus on a type of vehicle, to work on accidents and repairs or to get involved in a non-technical role. Whatever your interests, there are a range of career paths to follow;

Light Vehicles

A career that focuses on light vehicles can involve the inspection, maintenance, repair and servicing of vehicles under 3.5 tonnes.

Heavy Vehicles

Lorries and trucks keep the world of commerce moving and you could be involved in helping to supply the goods we rely on every day.

Accident Repair

Helping repair vehicles that have been involved in accidents to get them back on the road can offer great reward and job satisfaction. 

Motorcycles

If you have a passion for motorcycles, see how you can turn it into a career through a range of jobs working with these vehicles.

Parts

The automotive industry would grind to a halt without the millions of parts needed to make repairs and you can play a key role in this process.