Automotive & Collision Repair - LEVEL 2

U-Skills Academy Collision Repair

Interested in learning how to repair damaged cars? Discover if a career in automotive collision repair is right for you and study while still in secondary school.


Quick Facts

Locations
UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North
Dates

Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026

Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026

Delivery day: Fridays


View Timetable
Duration

1 day a week


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

Application Forms

Overview

This programme will help you develop the skills, core concepts and get a taste of the collision repair and finishing industry. You will have the opportunity to work towards NCEA Level 2 whilst exploring the technical skills required to repair and refinish a damaged car.

You will learn about:

  • Masking

  • Primers

  • Fillers

  • Sanding

  • Repairs

  • The tools and equipment used in the collision repair industry

  • Health and safety

  • Petrol and fuel systems

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

  • Cooling systems

  • Repairing minor panel damage

  • Interior and exterior motor body parts

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

Fridays, 9am - 3pm

Course Information

This programme comprises 27 credits.

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

Perform general servicing checks on a motor vehicle.

Unit Standard 21869 (Level 2) (Version 5) (1 Credit)

Remove and refit road wheels on a vehicle.

Unit Standard 21693 (Level 2) (Version 3) (3 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of tools and equipment used in the collision repair industry.

Unit Standard 23999 (Level 3) (Version 3) (4 Credits)

Reinstate vehicle body corrosion protection in the automotive industry.

Unit Standard 21701 (Level 2) (Version 5) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of exterior and interior motor body parts in the automotive industry.

Unit Standard 21703 (Level 2) (Version 4) (2 Credits)

Describe masking and primers in the collision repair industry.

Unit Standard 21710 (Level 3) (Version 4) (1 Credit)

Prepare, apply and sand body filler for a motor body panel repair.

Unit Standard 21709 (Level 3) (Version 5) (3 Credits)

Remove and replace a bolted-on motor body panel 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.

Unit Standard 21714 (Level 2) (Version 4) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of fastening systems used in the automotive industry.

Unit Standard 21715 (Level 2) (Version 4) (2 Credits)

Select and use fastening systems 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.

Accreditation

The programme is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020, and Universal College of Learning.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy Collision Repair 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 the automotive and/or collision repair industries.

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

To find out more about possible job prospects and salaries in the Automotive Collision Repair industry, 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 U-Skills Academy Collision Repairs 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.

Additional Costs

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