We can't wait to welcome you to Andover College!
We have created this interactive page to give you a sense of what studying Automotive Courses, including light vehicle repair principles, at Andover College is like.
If you have any questions about our courses or content please email - AskConstructionMV@sparsholt.ac.uk
Check out the pictures of all the trips and extra-curriculum activities our students get to experience along with all the help and support we can provide through our experienced Careers and Health & Wellbeing teams.
Meet your lecturer!
About the Course
The various IMI Diplomas offered at Andover are learning programmes designed to meet the current and future needs of the Automotive industry at Andover we are proud of the industry connections and first class professional teaching we can offer to applicants. In addition, you will hone your skills in the newly build £3.9 million Technology & Future Skills Centre!
If you have chosen the Level 2 Vehicle Inspections course, you will study:
- Spark ignition (petrol) engines
- Light vehicle braking system
- Exhaust systems and emission controls
- Inspection and replacement of light vehicle tyres
- Tools, fabrication and materials
- Introduction into electric, hybrid and alternatively fuelled vehicles
Progression from this course is to Level 2 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
If you have chosen the Level 2 Maintenance and Repair course, you will study:
- Light vehicle engine mechanical
- Light vehicle engine technical
- Vehicle electrics
- Chassis systems
- Transmission systems
- Light vehicle servicing and repair
- Tools, fabrication and materials
- Roles and responsibilities within the automotive industry
Progression from this course is to Level 3 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles or to an apprenticeship.
Our Level 3 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles is more in-depth study of the units covered in level 2 but with the emphasis on electronic systems and fault diagnosis and rectification.
You will also take part in two karting sessions and a trip to the Autosport International show at the NEC Birmingham.
All of our courses are divided into theory and practical lessons in the classrooms and our well-equipped workshop.
The awarding body for all of our qualifications is the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), the world’s leading automotive specific international awarding organisation.
During your second year we will help prepare you for your transition after college, whether this is into employment, higher apprenticeships or university.
Be sure to take a look at the IMI web page to explore your options in this exciting industry!
Additional Resources
Interested in learning more about the various topics you would study at Andover college? Take a look at these additional resources below and make sure you let us know how you get on!
Video recommendations:
Reading recommendations:
- Take a look at the IMI web page which has lots of interesting articles, blogs and insights into this exciting and fast-paced industry - here.
- Read up about the IMI qualification and its components - here.
- Take a look at our Motor Vehicle page to understand your course in more detail - here.
In addition, you may want to look into the variety of other online free courses available with the Open University. Take a look at their full catalogue here and keep your skills sharp!
Student wellbeing and support
At Andover College we understand that starting college in these uncertain times can be daunting and we aim to make this process as simple as possible.
We have a dedicated team that provide our students with any additional support they need including;
- Counselling
- Carer support
- Childcare support
- Confidential one-to-one services
We also have at the college Romeo our therapy dog! Romeo is part of the continued effort from Andover College to consistently improve on and add to wellbeing provision for students. Romeo is based on campus with his owner throughout term.
Research has shown that students are significantly less stressed and anxious, and even have increased happiness and energy, immediately following spending time in a drop-in session with a dog present.
Our Courses:
Level 1 Diploma in Transport Maintenance - Light Vehicle (Introduction to Motor Vehicle Studies, 1 Year)
IMI Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Service and Repair Principles (1 Year)
IMI Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Inspection (1 Year)
IMI level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles (1-2 Years)
Careers Guidance
Our careers guidance aims to expand the horizons of all students enabling you to make informed career decisions in order to progress both during and after college.
Carol is our dedicated Careers Advisor for Andover College!
We also have our Sun Progression Mentor Anna!
Anna works alongside the Southern Universities Network (SUN) to help students recognise the routes of progression available to them, and to continue their journey in education!
We recently launched the new Careers Hub located in the College library so come and say hello to Carol and Anna!