Apprenticeship
Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance Level 3 Apprenticeship
A Heavy Vehicle (HV) Technician services, inspects and repairs HVs, categorised by the Department of Transport as category N2 or N3 and associated trailers. They work in either a dealership that focuses on a particular…
Course overview
A Heavy Vehicle (HV) Technician services, inspects and repairs HVs, categorised by the Department of Transport as category N2 or N3 and associated trailers.
They work in either a dealership that focuses on a particular manufacturer, or for an independent garage, franchise or large fleet operator that deals with many different makes of vehicles. They work on all the systems found within the vehicle. The nature of the work ranges from replacing simple parts to solving complex faults with the use of diagnostic methods and equipment.
The day-to-day tasks faced by a HV Technician are constantly changing, driven by the introduction of ever more complex technologies and diagnostic techniques. Today’s technician has to demonstrate expertise in the technical side of their role. They must have strong problem-solving skills and a good grasp of the theoretical and practical aspects of vehicle systems and associated ancillaries.
They must be able to work independently but also operate as effective team members, understanding how their workshop and the dealership/garage/branch function from a commercial perspective, have good customer handling skills and identify ways in which they can work more efficiently. The growing complexity of today’s vehicles and the pressure to deliver a high-quality customer experience requires the retail automotive sector to attract and train high-calibre individuals.
Who is this course for?
This apprenticeship is for anyone developing a career in the motor industry. These practical qualifications demonstrate your skills on the job, showing that you meet national standards for automotive workers.
The structure and assessment strategy have been produced by the Institute of the Motor Industry, who are the Sector Skills Council for the Automotive Industry.
All apprentices commencing their apprenticeship must have an Apprenticeship Agreement between the employer and the apprentice. This can be used to reinforce the understanding of the requirements of the apprenticeship.
On completion of the apprenticeship, the apprentice must be able to undertake the full range of duties, in the range of circumstances appropriate to the job, confidently and competently to the standard set by the industry.
What you’ll learn
On this apprenticeship, you'll gain competentcy and confident knowledge in the following areas:
- Health, safety and good housekeeping
- Supportive job roles in the automotive work environment
- Materials, fabrication, tools and measuring devices
- Identifying and agreeing motor vehicle customer service needs
Candidates will undertake a competency assessment and build a portfolio of evidence, as well as attending college for fifteen blocks of two weeks spread over 3 years.
You'll also learn:
- Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English, if not already obtained
- Employee Rights and Responsibilities
- PLTS Personal learning and critical thinking skills
Entry requirements
Apprentices will be required to have or achieve Level 2 in English and Maths by the end of their apprenticeship if they do not already have a GCSE Grade 1 – 5/A-C in both subjects. Apprentices should be able to demonstrate through initial assessment that they are working at Level 2.
The duration of the apprenticeship is determined by a number of different factors such as experience and prior learning. The minimum time of an apprenticeship is 12 months with the maximum being identified on an individual basis.
How is the course delivered and assessed?
Apprentices will be required to have or achieve Level 2 in English and Maths by the end of their apprenticeship if they do not already have a GCSE Grade 1 – 5/A-C in both subjects. Apprentices should be able to demonstrate through initial assessment that they are working at Level 2.
The duration of the apprenticeship is determined by a number of different factors such as experience and prior learning. The minimum time of an apprenticeship is 12 months with the maximum being identified on an individual basis.
Future career and study
This qualification will allow you to progress in the motor vehicle industry as a fully-qualified technician, and will open options for you to become a master Tec, MOT tester, and Hybrid electric Technicians.
You can also progress onto further study on the college with our Level 4 Automotive Management course. This will allow you to progress into the management structure of the industry.
Additional costs
<p>As a City of Bristol College apprentice, you may incur additional costs on your apprenticeship. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery, and for some apprenticeships you may need to purchase specialist equipment.</p> <p>From September 2023, students on all motor vehicle courses will be required to purchase and wear a uniform in college. You will receive more information about this, including cost and how to purchase, at your induction. If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary</p>
