Students have been given a new opportunity to become qualified mechanics with a new vocational course run by Lunar Racing. Based at Rockingham Motor Speedway, the two year training programme will provide experience and qualifications to those looking to head down that career path.
Sixty-five students from across Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire began the first running of the course in September. After being recommended for the course by their schools or local education authority's, after showing an interest in becoming motor vehicle engineers, the students underwent a selection process before receiving a place.
The course sees the student's speed one day a week at the circuit during term time, with time split between theory and practical sessions covering everything they need to know in motor vehicle maintenance. Those passing the course will leave as fully-qualified mechanics with the internationally recognised IMI Level 2 motor vehicle qualification.
Lunar Racing Centre Co-ordinator, Paul Kneeshaw, said: “We are absolutely delighted with how the first-term has gone. The students come from a broad background and have a mixed academic ability but they all have one thing in common.
“All the students are enthusiastic about cars and this training programme not only gives them an internationally recognised qualification in vehicle maintenance, but also the confidence and personal skills to help them gain employment.
“We use the building and maintenance of real racing cars to teach them every aspects of the motor vehicle from the basic electrics to stripping down the engine, changing a gear box through to servicing the car.
“The students are a vital member of the race team as they keep our racing drivers on track at the highest level of British Motorsport however the work ethics this hands-on experience ensures students graduate with honours.”
“There is a great camaraderie within the team as everyone pulls together. This provides the students with a great sense of achievement and they are all rightly very proud of what they do.”
