Automotive & Collision Repair - LEVEL 2

U-Skills Academy Automotive

Interested in the fields of automotive mechanics, engine servicing or auto electrical? Discover if a career in the automotive industry is right for you and study while still in secondary school.


Quick Facts

Locations
UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Horowhenua in Levin, UCOL Whanganui, UCOL Wairarapa in Masterton
Dates

Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026

Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026

Delivery days:

Palmerston North - Mondays and Tuesdays

Whanganui - Thursdays

Masterton - Thursdays

Levin - Wednesdays


View Timetable
Duration

1 day a week


See Course Hours & Duration for details
Domestic Fees
Fees-free

Application Forms

Overview

This programme will teach you core concepts and give you a taste of the automotive industry. You will have the opportunity to work towards NCEA Level 2 whilst exploring the technical skills required to work in the automotive field.

You will learn about:

  • General service checks

  • Disassembling and reassembling a four-stroke multi-cylinder engine

  • The hand tools and workshop equipment for motor industry application

  • Health and safety

  • Petrol and fuel systems

  • The operation of two and four-stroke petrol and diesel engines

  • Braking systems

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Once you've talked to everyone required, you can use the form at the top of the page to apply.

Course Hours

Palmerston North

Mondays and Tuesdays, 9am - 3pm


Whanganui and Masterton

Thursdays, 9am - 3pm

Course Information

This programme comprises 28 credits.

Unit Standard 30566 (Level 3) (Version 1) (3 Credits)

Service an automotive battery.

Unit Standard 30476 (Level 2) (Version 1) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of tools and equipment used in the motor industry.

Unit Standard 21857  (Level 2) (Version 4) (2 Credits)

Identify the occupational areas and purpose of the New Zealand motor industry.

Unit Standard 21722 (Level 2) (Version 2) (2 Credits)

Balance a wheel off a vehicle in the motor industry.

Unit Standard 21719 (Level 2) (Version 3) (3 Credits)

Remove and replace a lamp on a motor vehicle.

Unit Standard 21690  (Level 2) (Version 3) (3 Credits)

Perform general servicing checks on a motor vehicle.

Unit Standard 21688 (Level 2) (Version 4) (3 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of disassembling and reassembling a four stroke multi-cylinder engine.

Unit Standard 21679 (Level 2) (Version 3) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of interchanging and balancing wheels in the automotive industry.

Unit Standard 29580  (Level 2) (Version 2) (4 Credits)

Demonstrate good work habits and safe work practices in the automotive industry.

Unit Standard 29579 (Level 2) (Version 2) (4 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of good work habits and safe work practices in the automotive industry.

Domestic Entry Requirements

For year 11 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school).

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

Recommended school subjects include:

  • Maths
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Construction
  • Mechanical Technologies
  • English
  • Digital Technologies

International Entry Requirements

Not applicable.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy Automotive Programme is the first step in a journey. Equipped with new skills and a taste for the industry, you will know what you need to do to pursue a career in automotive.

If this is for you, you can undertake further tertiary studies in:

To find out more about possible job prospects and salaries for Automotive Technicians and Electricians, visit tahatu.govt.nz

Advice And Guidance

This programme is part of a suite of Academy programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. Gain practical experience and NCEA Credits.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for the UCOL Academy Automotive Programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school.

Cost

Fees-free when criteria are met.

Transport

Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria.

Attendance expectations

Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and Academy to remain enrolled in the Academy Programme.

Verified primary ID

All learners should submit a verified primary ID (e.g. birth certificate or passport) for their first enrolment into any UCOL programme/course (online or face to face) or if the verified ID is not held online yet.

Additional Costs

There are no additional costs associated with this programme. Simply, bring a pen, paper and your lunch each week.