Any application for a full-time course submitted after 16 June will be treated as a late application.
Motor Vehicle
Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light) Apprenticeship Level 3
- Course Type: Apprenticeship
What can this course lead to?
Career Progression and Further Opportunities
Successful learners have a plethora of opportunities ahead. You can continue to work within the motor industry, aiming for promotion, or you may choose to further your education at university or via a higher level or degree apprenticeship.
Professional Accreditation
This standard has been designed to align with the professional standards set by the Engineering Council. Upon successful completion, you’ll be eligible for initial registration as an Engineering Technician (Eng. Tech) with a relevant professional body.
Future Development
Once you’ve successfully achieved this standard, you’ll have the opportunity to progress to roles such as Master Technician or enter into management. It’s also an opportunity to further develop in your current role.
Who is it for?
Please only apply for this course if you already have a suitable employer to support you throughout your Apprenticeship. If you do not currently have an employer you can apply for Apprenticeship vacancies by visiting www.peterborough.ac.uk/apprenticeships/apprenticeship-vacancies A Motor Vehicle Technician services and repairs light vehicles such as cars and vans and works either in dealerships that focus on a particular manufacturer, or for an independent garage that deals with many different makes of vehicles. You will work on all the systems found within the vehicle. The nature of the work ranges from replacing simple parts through to solving complex faults with the use of diagnostic methods and equipment. To become a Motor Vehicle Apprentice you will need a good attitude and good manual and practical skills. You will need to have good communication skills and also have a willingness to learn new techniques and methods. You can apply for an Apprenticeship if you are living in England, over 16 and not in full-time education. You must be in paid employment for the duration of your Apprenticeship, you cannot be self-employed or a volunteer. Employers must pay you the minimum Apprenticeship wage or more, for a minimum of 30 hours a week.
What is covered?
Apprenticeship Overview
This Apprenticeship covers the practical skills and theoretical knowledge you will need to work in the motor vehicle maintenance and repair sector.
Knowledge and Understanding
- How vehicle service and repair is impacted by legislative, regulatory, and ethical requirements, including health and safety law and environmental procedures.
- The structure of the industry and operational aspects, business targets, and systems and processes for efficient business running.
Skills Development
- Contribute to the maintenance of a safe and efficient workshop.
- Demonstrate due regard for your own safety and that of others in the workshop.
Expected Behaviours
- Take responsibility when required and be honest and accountable when things don't go to plan.
- Operate as an effective team member.
Off-the-Job Training
As an Apprentice, you are expected to attend college one day a week as part of your ongoing 20% off-the-job training. Additional off-the-job training hours should be completed within the workplace. However, you may also be asked to complete tasks at home via Google Classroom and One-file.
Additional Qualifications
Please note that you may also be required to complete additional English and Maths qualifications as part of the Apprenticeship programme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Selection Criteria and Course Overview
Individual employers will set their selection criteria, but it is likely to include 5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English, Maths and Science or a Technology subject; a relevant Level 2 Apprenticeship; other relevant qualifications and experience; or an aptitude test with a focus on your current skills.
Course Features
This course offers a hands-on approach to learning, so you’ll need to have a passion and drive for motor vehicle engineering. Additionally, you should have the ability to perform academically at A-Level standard for Maths, English, and Science.
Employer Support
You will also require a suitably supportive employer to guide you through your Apprenticeship. If you don’t have an employer already, you can apply for Apprenticeship vacancies which are advertised on our website. Find apprenticeship vacancies here.
Work Experience
We strongly advise you to complete a minimum of 2 weeks work experience with your employer prior to the start of your Apprenticeship to ensure it is a suitable organisation for your needs. Be prepared to get your hands dirty.
End-point Assessment (EPA)
As well as being assessed continually throughout your Apprenticeship course, all Apprentices are required to complete an End-point Assessment (EPA) in order to finalise their qualification.
The EPA is conducted independently of both your employer and Peterborough Regional College. It is designed to evaluate whether you have attained the skills, knowledge, and behaviours outlined in the Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light) Apprenticeship Standard. You will be graded according to your individual performance.
Assessment and Certifications
Throughout the duration of your Apprenticeship, you will complete several assessments and must maintain a log book for at least 18 months. You will also be required to obtain an F-Gas certificate. Only upon meeting these prerequisites can your assessor and employer agree to put you forward for the ‘Gateway’, allowing you to focus on and prepare for your EPA.
EPA Components
The End-point Assessment consists of three individual activities, all of which must be completed to pass:
- 1) Online Knowledge Examinations
- 2) Synoptic Skills Test
- 3) Synoptic Professional Discussion
Results from these activities will contribute to an overall grade of Fail, Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
Your Responsibility
Throughout the Apprenticeship, it is your responsibility—with support from your employer, assessor, and college tutors—to ensure that you are adequately prepared for your final, independent EPA.
Further Information
Assessors will provide more information about the EPA during the Apprenticeship Sign-Up process.
Additional Requirements
Learners may be required to purchase a uniform and/or equipment, depending on the employer’s specific requirements.
Additional time may be required to complete your independent End-Point assessment. You must have a contract of employment for the duration of your Apprenticeship programme.
Reality Check
As a motor vehicle Apprentice, you can expect to work in a garage setting, interacting with customers and possibly being on call to assist with broken down vehicles. The working environment can be noisy and dirty. Apprentices typically work around 30 hours per week, which may include evenings and weekends, and this can vary depending on seasonal trends and workloads.
Salaries and Benefits
Average salaries for qualified motor vehicle Apprentices range between £18,000 and £21,000. As an employed status Apprentice, you will:
- Earn a wage – the national minimum wage for Apprentices is £6.40 an hour, although many Apprentices earn more than this.
- Have a contract of employment – this must be provided at the start of your employment.
- Receive paid holidays – the details of which will be outlined in your contract of employment.
- Undergo training – it’s crucial to your Apprenticeship’s success that your employer supports you with regular training. You’ll be required to complete a minimum of 20% off-the-job training, which may include sessions at Peterborough Regional College and workplace training. A portfolio will also be developed, and tasks completed via One-file and Google Classrooms.
Academic and Practical Learning
The course combines academic knowledge, working to A-Level standard in Maths, English, and Science, with valuable hands-on experience. It serves as a suitable stepping stone to university or provides invaluable shop floor understanding sought after by many employers.
Start date: 15/09/2025
Course Code
SAP3LV5AW$
Duration
36 months
Full-time courses are fully funded for 16 to 18-year-olds. For age 19+, various funding options are available.
The tuition I received at Peterborough College was a very strong foundation of automotive mechanics and the industry where I now work as Regional After Sales Manager, covering Texas, California and the South-West for Aston Martin North America. The lecturers were hugely inspiring to me and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the College in launching me on a career in automotive spanning 30 years.
Gary Hymen
Motor Vehicle Diploma Level 2
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