IMI Apprenticeship – Level 2 with Progression to Level 3
Employer: Drive Motor Group
Location: Darlington
Drive Vauxhall Darlington is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to start their career as a Service Technician Apprentice, beginning with Level 2 Autocare and progressing to Level 3 Service Technician upon successful completion.
This apprenticeship combines paid employment with nationally recognised IMI training, giving you hands-on experience, technical skills, and a strong understanding of vehicle maintenance and repair. Working alongside experienced technicians, you will gain practical experience in servicing, fault-finding, and vehicle inspections, setting the foundation for a long-term career in the automotive industry.
Assist senior technicians in routine servicing, inspections, and maintenance tasks
Support fault-finding using diagnostic tools and equipment
Learn to repair mechanical and electrical vehicle systems
Follow health & safety procedures and work safely in the workshop
Record work completed, parts used, and service activity accurately
Attend all required IMI training and assessments
Work as part of a team to ensure high standards of workmanship and customer satisfaction
40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday
Normal working hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm, may vary depending on the dealership
Approximately 20% of your working week will be dedicated to Off-the-Job (OTJ) learning, including online learning, classroom sessions, and workshop training.
Apprentices are employed directly by Drive Motor Group
Training includes block release, which requires travel and overnight stays away from home
Block training takes place at The Performance Academy, Coventry
Support includes:
Face-to-face technical sessions
Virtual classroom sessions and e-learning
Workplace mentoring and coaching
All training is delivered in line with IMI and ESFA requirements.
Level 2 Autocare Apprenticeship (IMI)
Progression to Level 3 Service Technician Apprenticeship upon successful completion
Includes workplace competence, technical knowledge, and OTJ learning
Completion provides a nationally recognised qualification and a clear route to becoming a fully qualified Service Technician
All apprentices are paid at least the Apprenticeship Minimum Wage, with opportunities for progression as skills develop.
https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
Aged 16+
GCSE / National 5 (or equivalent) A–C / 9–4 in Maths and English (Predicted grades are accepted, provided the final results meet the required standards.)
Strong interest in vehicle servicing and repair (petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric)
Good problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Willingness to travel and stay away from home for training
Basic IT skills
Hold a valid driving licence
Calex UK is the official apprenticeship recruitment and training partner to Stellantis in the UK. They deliver high-quality, employer-led apprenticeship programmes aligned to IMI standards.
Barriers to learning can be caused by many different difficulties including learning, physical, social, emotional, and mental health, as well as language and communication difficulties. Calex UK is an inclusive and supportive provider, with a dedicated team that will provide advice and guidance to all learners and to assess any reasonable adjustments required. Calex UK is committed to actively promoting equality of opportunity to ensure that all learners reach their full learning potential and achieve success during their learning journey. If you require any adjustments to access the application process or to discuss this in more detail, please contact us.
Applications are assessed against entry and qualification requirements
Suitable applicants will receive further information by email
If you do not hear back within 5 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful
Applicants must provide evidence of qualifications (GCSEs, Functional Skills). Please note that we are unable to accept any documents other than official certificates.
For support, adjustments, or application queries, please contact:
[email protected]
