Find a course
arc blue

VRQ1 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR (1)

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 5
  • Course Type:   Full-time

VRQ1 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

This course introduces automotive engineering to those who are planning a career in the motor vehicle industry.

Start date – August 2026

End date –  June 2027

SCQF Level -  5

Mode – Full time

Duration: 10 months

The motor vehicle industry is developing at a fast rate and, as vehicles become increasingly technical, so do the skills and knowledge needed to service and maintain them.

You will develop practical skills in a workshop environment, and learn theory and principles in the classroom.

Zoe Laverie is studying VRQ1 Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair at West Lothian College, and she talks about her experience on the course. Further to Zoe's studies, she is going on to be the first female Mechanic Apprentice for Peoples Ford in Scotland.

  • What this course includes

    • General mechanics, including braking systems, engine, suspension, oils, lubricants, maintenance and servicing
    • Awareness and safe practice when working with Electric and Hybrid vehicles
    • Health and safety
    • Communication, information technology, problem solving, team-working and numeracy
    • Work experience, placements, visits to industry and visits from experts

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. 

Part of the course will also give you the opportunity to meet with local employers, either as part of a visit to garages, or when employers come to the college. 

Entry requirements

  • Minimum National 5 in Mathematics, English and Science 
  • Practical experience is preferred but not essential 

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

  • Graduation 2024

    Where it leads

    Education: You can progress on to the VRQ2 course or on to an apprenticeship 

    Employment:  Entry-level positions within motor vehicle/engineering organisations or mechanic workshops; development opportunities for light vehicle maintenance or in fast-fit organisations with previous students finding employment with Arnold Clark, Western Commercial and many privately run garages. 

     

Interview arrangements

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

Interview Questions

  • What got you into cars or fixing things in the first place?
  • Have you ever worked on a car, motorbike, or anything mechanical before? Tell me about it.
  • What kind of vehicles or car stuff do you enjoy the most — classic cars, racing, customizing, or something else?
  • Do you have any hobbies where you like to build, repair, or tinker with things?
  • Why do you want to take this course, and what do you hope to do after you finish? 

Fees, finance and funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more.

arc purple
arc white

Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.

Apply online Make an enquiry