Motor Vehicle Maintenance
Workshop ramp
Brake training rig
Exciting times are ahead for students studying Motor Vehicle subjects at West Somerset Community College! From September 2008 our purpose built training environment will provide a state of the art workshop which simulates a working modern garage. The College has invested a lot of money to ensure the experience the students will have will be second to none.
The workshop will be fully fitted with a wide range of equipment including ramps, tyre changing equipment, workbenches and a wide range of tools. In addition to the purpose built workshop Motor Vehicle students will also have exclusive access to a dedicated training room featuring the latest in electronic training aids such as engine diagnostic systems and simulation equipment such as brake and suspension rigs.
Courses Available - Year 9
During year 9 all students will spend a short time experiencing what is on offer at the college. A number of practically based (but fun) exercises will introduce basic vehicle concepts and skills which will be useful to any student or future car owner!
Any year 9 student who expresses an interest in studying a motor vehicle option will then undergo a short test to assess which course is most suitable for them. Students will then go on to either study the ABC Awards Level 1 course or the BTEC Level 2 course in Years 10 and 11. Years 10 and 11.
Both of the courses available are double option modules, meaning that students will spend 10 hours per fortnight in lessons. All lessons will be conducted from the motor vehicle training facility by the specialist teachers (Mr Pitt or/and Mr Boden) and there are usually no more than 15 students in each teaching group.
The following two pages answer a few questions including the basic details of the two courses, the areas covered and the methods of assessment.
Motor Vehicle Studies Level 1
Can you imagine yourself working with cars or motorbikes for a career?
Would you like to know how to fix and repair vehicles?
Have you ever thought of running your own business?
If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of the questions above then maybe you should consider studying an ABC diploma level 1 in motor vehicle studies. The course is practically based and will give you the chance to develop some of the basic skills that you would need to work in the motor vehicle industry.
How long is the course?2 years
What will I do on the course?You will:
• develop basic knowledge and skills in motor vehicle repair
• study vehicle power units
• learn about steering, braking and suspension systems
• learn basic routine maintenance of motor vehicles
• study motorcycle maintenance
• learn about body repair and vehicle valeting
You will also study essential skills including application of number, communication and IT to support your practical work and career development.
How do I get on the course?
You should also be enthusiastic and have a genuine interest in motor vehicle mechanics, be able to work independently when necessary and enjoy working with people as part of a team.
What happens when I finish the course?If you complete the level 1 qualification then you may be able to progress onto a BTEC national certificate in motor vehicle studies which is also taught at the College, or you may want to go straight into employment within the motor vehicle industry.
Do I have to take any written exams?You will have reviews and practical assessments throughout your course and will also have to submit a folder of evidence that includes workshop practice and underpinning knowledge. You will also have to take some short tests relating to each unit of study.
BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Vehicle Technology Duration: 2 years Progression: Successful students can progress onto the BTEC National Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies which is also taught at the College in year 12 and 13, or you may want to go straight into employment within the motor vehicle industry. What does the course cover?
An introduction to vehicle technology and workshop methods and processes
Carrying out basic routine maintenance Contributing to workplace good housekeeping. Carry out routine vehicle maintenance Remove and replace engine units and components Remove and replace auxiliary electrical units and components, chassis units and components, vehicle transmission and drive line units and components. Underpinning knowledge covering relevant areas of vehicle technology to include:
Vehicle engine systems, Vehicle layout, Wheels, tyres, exhausts, suspension and steering, brakes, fault diagnosis… Conducting pre- and post-work vehicle inspections and relevant paperwork.
How will learning take place?
Learning will take place in the new purpose built and equipped workshop, through demonstration, practise and also through focused individual study. Do I have to take any written exams? Assessment for each unit will be through a number of practical assignments, the completion of a written end of module assignment and recording of underpinning knowledge in individual logbooks.
Post 16 courses
September 2008 will see the introduction of West Somerset Community College’s first post 16 Motor vehicle course where students will be undertaking the Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Vehicle Technology. The course provides a programme of study which covers the key knowledge and practical skills required whilst also allowing the students to specialise in areas which they are particularly interested in. The course is full time and is broadly equivalent to three GCE A levels.