Accident Repair Technician Apprenticeship – Level 3

This comprehensive course prepares learners to repair motor vehicles that have sustained collision damage, restoring them safely and professionally to their pre-accident condition. Covering a wide range of damage—from minor cosmetic issues to complex structural repairs—this programme equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills required to work on cars, car-derived vans, and light commercial vehicles.

Learners will develop competence across all core craft areas of vehicle accident repair, including Mechanical, Electrical and Trim (MET), non-structural panel repair, structural panel repair and replacement, as well as preparation and paint refinishing. The course also introduces key safety principles relating to electric and hybrid vehicles, ensuring students understand how to work safely while considering environmental impacts and sustainability practices.

A strong emphasis is placed on understanding vehicle Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), enabling learners to identify when these systems may have been affected by a collision and to follow appropriate checking procedures. Students will gain the ability to obtain, interpret, and accurately apply complex technical repair specifications and manufacturer instructions.

Throughout the programme, learners will develop a focused, analytical, and methodical approach to their work, completing repairs efficiently and to a right-first-time standard. Teamwork, communication, and collaboration within a modern, technologically advanced workshop environment are integral components of the course. Students will also build commercial awareness and a customer-focused mindset, recognising the importance of complete customer satisfaction.

Topics may include:

• Mechanical and electrical trim removal and re-fitment
• Removal and replacement of structural/non-structural panels
• Diagnose and repair faults within the vehicle electrical system
• Repairing various vehicle body panel damage
• Preparing vehicles and panels for refinishing
• Refinishing application skills, including colour matching and identification skills.