Vehicle Damage Paint Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship
The Vehicle Damage Paint Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to specialise in the preparation and refinishing of vehicles that have been involved in accidents. This programme prepares you to restore vehicle surfaces to a high-quality finish using modern paint systems and techniques.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a bodyshop or accident repair centre while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 36 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced automotive environment.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a bodyshop or accident repair centre while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 36 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced automotive environment.
Course Information
Course Type:
Apprenticeship
Study Mode:
PT Released
Qualification:
Apprenticeship
Location:
Deane Road Campus
Course Code:
SD436-L3
Course Length:
108
Start Date:
Various start dates from August 2026
Subject Area:
ENGINEERING AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Overview
The Vehicle Damage Paint Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to specialise in the preparation and refinishing of vehicles that have been involved in accidents. This programme prepares you to restore vehicle surfaces to a high-quality finish using modern paint systems and techniques.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a bodyshop or accident repair centre while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 36 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced automotive environment.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a bodyshop or accident repair centre while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 36 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced automotive environment.
What You'll Learn
You’ll learn how to prepare vehicle surfaces, mix and apply paint, and use specialist tools and equipment to achieve a flawless finish. The course covers:
Surface preparation and masking techniques
Paint mixing, matching, and application
Use of spray guns, paint booths, and UV lamps
Repair of minor scratches and dents
Polishing and detailing techniques
Health and safety, including safe handling of solvents and materials
Working with different substrates such as metal, plastic, and carbon fibre
You’ll also develop skills in interpreting technical data, quality control, and understanding the commercial impact of your role in the repair process.
Surface preparation and masking techniques
Paint mixing, matching, and application
Use of spray guns, paint booths, and UV lamps
Repair of minor scratches and dents
Polishing and detailing techniques
Health and safety, including safe handling of solvents and materials
Working with different substrates such as metal, plastic, and carbon fibre
You’ll also develop skills in interpreting technical data, quality control, and understanding the commercial impact of your role in the repair process.
How Will I Be Assessed?
You’ll be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through practical observations, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence. Your college tutor and employer will help you track your progress and prepare for your final assessment.
At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:
A practical skills test
A professional discussion
A review of your portfolio
These assessments confirm your competence and readiness to work independently as a qualified Paint Technician.
At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:
A practical skills test
A professional discussion
A review of your portfolio
These assessments confirm your competence and readiness to work independently as a qualified Paint Technician.
Entry Requirements
You will need a grade 4 or above in either Maths or English with a commitment to achive the remainder while on the course ready for your End Point assessment. a strong interest in automotive refinishing and a commitment to learning.
However, some employers may set their own entry requirements.
However, some employers may set their own entry requirements.
I'm Interested, What Next?
If you’re interested in this apprenticeship, the first step is to register your interest with Bolton College. This will add you to our mailing list so we can keep you informed about any upcoming apprenticeship vacancies or employer opportunities in your chosen field.
To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.
Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182
To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.
Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182
Future Opportunities
After completing this apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified to work as a Vehicle Paint Technician in a range of settings. You may also choose to specialise in electric vehicle refinishing, detailing, or progress to a supervisory or technical training role.
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in the automotive repair industry.
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in the automotive repair industry.
Who Can I Speak To?
In the first instance please send a message to apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk
How to Apply?
Click the ‘Express an Interest’ button on this page to express your interest.
You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.
If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk
You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.
If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk
Open Events
Open Events are your chance to experience Bolton College first-hand.
Register for one of the events below to chat to tutors, explore our facilities, and find out more about our amazing courses.
Visit boltoncollege.ac.uk/events to find an event and register.
Register for one of the events below to chat to tutors, explore our facilities, and find out more about our amazing courses.
- Wednesday 15th October 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Tuesday 18th November 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Monday 15th December 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Wednesday 9th February 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Thursday 12th March 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Tuesday 12th May 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Thursday 18th June 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Walk In Day, Thursday 2nd July 2026, 9am-4pm
Visit boltoncollege.ac.uk/events to find an event and register.
Supporting Your Learning
We have a range of dedicated support and wellbeing services including FREE travel, financial support, and impartial advice and guidance. Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll also receive one-to-one support from your dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping you to achieve your ambitions
Why Choose Us?
We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering you a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.
We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.
You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.
We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.
You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.
English and maths classes - for adults and young people who want that grade or confidence boost.
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