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VRQ2 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

INTRODUCTION TO THE AUTOMOTIVE ENVIRONMENT (JAN) LEVEL 4

  • Start date:   January 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 4
  • Course Type:   Short Full-time

INTRODUCTION TO THE AUTOMOTIVE ENVIRONMENT (JAN) LEVEL 4

Please note: This course is now full. If you apply, you will receive an email confirming that the course is full. Should a place become available, we will contact you, but we cannot guarantee this. Some courses still have availability- please check our website for the most up-to-date information on course availability. Alternatively, you can contact our Enquiries and Admissions team at choosecollege@west-lothian.ac.uk

The course provides an excellent introduction to a career in automotive engineering, teaching you the practical skills needed to progress to further study in the area.

Based mostly within the motor vehicle workshop, this course gives school leavers the opportunity to get an insight into the sector before choosing further study or an apprenticeship, and it provides an excellent introduction to a career in automotive engineering, teaching you the practical skills needed to progress to further study in the area. 

Start date – January 19th 2026 

End date – June 5th 2026 

SCQF Level -4 

Mode - Short Full Time 

Duration:  5 months

 

  • What this course includes

    You will develop practical skills in a motor vehicle workshop environment, and although most of the time will be spent on practical activities, you will also learn the principles in the classroom. 

    • Engine lubrication and cooling 
    • Fuel and exhaust systems 
    • Electrical systems 
    • Braking systems 
    • Steering and suspension 
    • Wheels and tyres 
    • General vehicle mechanics 

Why choose this course?

Delivered in a working motor vehicle environment, you will get access to new technologies and a range of different vehicles to practice on. 

You will learn from experts in the field of motor vehicle, all who have experience working in commercial garages.

Entry requirements

  • You should have National 3 Mathematics, English and a Science subject or a relevant technical subject 
  • Any relevant experience will help your application 
  • A desire to work in the automotive environment 

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.

  • Where it leads

    Education: Further study within the industry or related fields, including the  light vehicle maintenance repair programme at the college. 

    Employment: An apprenticeship within the automotive industry.

Interview Arrangements

If you are invited for interview, you will be required to undertake a short practical skills test and group interview. Here are some example questions: 

Interview Questions 

General Interest and Background  

  • What made you choose this course?  
  • What do you hope to achieve by the end of this course?  
  • What qualities do you think are useful to work in automotive?  

Skills and Learning Preferences  

  • How do you prefer to learn – hands-on, visual, written, or a mix?  
  • What subjects or skills are you good at?  
  • This course involves workshop practical and classroom theory work - Are there any areas you think you might need extra support with? 

Reflection and Commitment  

  • What are you most looking forward to on this course?  
  • What do you think will be the biggest challenge for you?  
  • Are you comfortable following health and safety procedures?  
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