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Key details

Course area
Motor Vehicle
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Highfields Jesse Boot Avenue, Nottingham, NG7 2RU
Course code
Parent course code:C059638 Child course code: Q059639
Apply now

Course introduction

Are you ready to take your passion for vehicles to the next level? The IMI Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry in Automotive Care (Diploma) is the perfect gateway into a fast‑growing, high‑tech industry full of exciting career opportunities. Whether you dream of becoming a technician, progressing into an apprenticeship, or simply want hands‑on skills that set you apart — this course is your ideal next step.

Designed with direct input from automotive employers, this qualification mirrors the Autocare Technician Apprenticeship Standard, giving you the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to thrive in the modern motor industry. You’ll learn in real workshops, work with real vehicles, and build confidence through practical tasks that reflect true industry practice.

What you’ll learn

Across 12 engaging units, you’ll develop essential skills in areas such as:

  • Vehicle maintenance, inspection and servicing
  • Customer service and workplace communication
  • Electrical, chassis, engine and air‑conditioning systems
  • Advanced technologies including electric & hydrogen vehicles and ADAS safety systems
  • Health, safety and workshop procedures
  • Stock control, tools, materials and fabrication skills

With a mix of practical assessments and online testing, you’ll gain the expertise and confidence to move straight into employment or progress onto higher‑level automotive training.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for:

  • School leavers with an interest in cars, engineering or hands‑on technical work
  • Learners wanting a practical route into the automotive sector
  • Anyone aiming to progress into an automotive apprenticeship or Level 3 qualification

No previous workshop experience is required.

If you’re motivated, practical, and excited to work with the technology that keeps the world moving, this course gives you the perfect foundation. Join us and gain the skills, confidence and industry‑recognised qualification you need to start your future in automotive care.

Apply now and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career.

Course information

1 year

IMI Level 2 Diploma in Automotive Care

To join this course, you will need ONE of the following:

  • A Level 1 Diploma and GCSE English or Maths,
     OR
  • GCSE English and Maths achieved at school.

You must also be aged 16 or over and have a genuine interest in working in the automotive sector.

Assessment comprises of 2 online exams. 14 practical assessments and 7 assessor observations in the workshop.

Successful students can progress into:

  • Automotive apprenticeships (including Autocare Technician)
  • Level 3 automotive qualifications
  • Employment in garages, dealerships, fast‑fit centres, or specialist workshops

Your skills will open doors across a wide range of automotive areas, including light vehicles, heavy vehicles, motorcycles, land‑based machinery, lift‑truck, and more.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

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