Schools 14-16 – ABC Level 1 Award in Automotive Studies
Applications for the Pre-16 Provision open in February 2022. Please do not apply for this course if you will be 16 or older in September 2022. This course is part of our Pre-16 Provision and is only accessible if your school has agreed to fund the placement during Year 10 and 11.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
The ABC Level 1 Award in Automotive Studies (601/7542/4)* has been developed to provide students with the technical knowledge and skills needed in the automotive sector.
The UK automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, worth more than £82 billion turnover, and employs around 168,000 people directly in manufacturing. If you love cars and enjoy fixing things, a career in the automotive aftersales industry could be ideal for you. You’ll be in a hands-on role repairing, servicing and operating on all aspects of vehicle mechanics and electrics.
Students will have the chance to learn in our purpose-built, high-specification workshops so you’ll benefit from the latest technology such as electronic and computer diagnostic equipment.
This course is delivered over two years, starting in Year 10, and students will study at the Roundhouse (Johnson Building) one day a week.
*qualification featured on the DfE KS4 Performance Tables
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements: you just need a strong interest in cars and mechanics.
What will you learn?
You will need to complete four mandatory units plus an external examination.
- Working in an automotive industry environment – learn the basics of health and safety issues in the automotive industry and explore different career opportunities in the automotive sector. Find out more about the environmental issues that are linked to the automotive industry.
Weighting: 6% of the qualification
Assessment: Internal
- Using engineering materials and skills – investigate different materials and their properties and learn how to safely use these materials and skills in order to create an accessory or tool.
Weighting: 18% of the qualification
Assessment: Internal
- Remove and re-fit mechanical components – learn about the processes and procedures that are required to remove and re-fit mechanical components in a safe manner and how to report on the condition of the components.
Weighting: 18% of the qualification
Assessment: Internal
- Introduction to basic automotive electrical principles – discover the basic principles of automotive electrics and explore the different types of batteries and lighting systems.
Weighting: 18% of the qualification
Assessment: Internal
- Multiple-choice synoptic exam – you will be tested on all the technical knowledge and skills you have learned through the duration of this course.
Weighting: 40% of the qualification
Assessment: External examination
How will you learn?
You will learn on-site
What will you need to bring with you?
Students must wear safety overalls (purchased through Derby College Group) and steel toe-cap boots in the workshop. You will be required to supply your own writing materials.
How will you be assessed?
Students will be assessed through a mixture of internal assignments and an external examination.
All four units and the multiple-choice exam must be successfully completed to gain this qualification.
Where next?
Further Study
Upon completion of the qualification, and depending on the grades achieved and other qualifications gained, students may wish to progress to:
- The Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
- The Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
- An apprenticeship programme at Level 2 or 3
- A-levels
You will be able to access advice and guidance while studying at the College to learn more about the post-16 opportunities available for you.
Careers
Further study can lead to a variety of careers, including:
- Vehicle technician
- Vehicle body repairer
- Motorsport engineer
- Garage manager
For more information, email the 14-16 team at 14-16@derby-college.ac.uk
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
Vehicle Technicians, Mechanics and Electricians
£32185
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Course Information Last Updated On: October 12, 2021 2:41 pm