LEVEL 3 MOTORSPORT AND VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
Cleo Collins studied Level 3 Motorsport and Vehicle Technology at North Kent College from 2020 to 2022, and it has already paid dividends, she now works for the Alpine F1 Team, and is the Number 1 Mechanic for the Race Support Team.
Here she tells us a bit more about her time at the College, her course and why she recommends studying here!
Why did you choose North Kent College?
They offered a great course and it was within travelling distance from where I lived in North London.
What would you say were the best three things about studying at North Kent College?
The lecturers, Nick, Kevin and Lawrence were all so passionate about their roles and had a great understanding of teaching and knowledge. I enjoyed the workshop days, we had the opportunity to learn amongst ourselves and team and help each other out with a wide variety of knowledge between us students.
How has North Kent College helped your career?
I had a lot of practical experience prior to choosing to go for a motorsport course however, when looking at jobs in the career I wanted to do, I noticed a lot of employers wanted to see a motorsport qualification. It certainly helped me in my career to obtain the jobs I wanted.
Where do you now work and what is next for you?
I currently work for the Alpine F1 Team in Formula One, and am the Number 1 Mechanic for the Race Support Team.
In the future I'd like to continue working in Motorsport and potentially go on to do a Motorsport degree.
What has been your route getting to your current position?
It has been mostly hands on experience working with different teams to gain knowledge and experience, this also allowed me to network which also plays a significant part in motorsport and job development.
My Level 3 Motorsport and Vehicle Technology qualification looks great on my CV and employers always mention and ask about it during interviews.
Would you recommend studying at the College and if so, why?
Yes I would, as mentioned previously the lectures are second to none! They are always able to help and offer support and guidance in chosen areas as well as spending a bit more time explaining things so that we could get a better understanding of the units.
The days in the classroom always complemented the days in the workshop so that we could put into practice what we learned about.
I understand there is now a new workshop on campus which I have visited after I finished my course and it looks great! It is always nice to see investment in courses.
Describe your whole college experience and how it has enabled you to progress.
It was very enjoyable, I would commute a total of four hours a day to get there and back so it was testing at times with travelling, but it was also flexible around my work schedule and I was able to keep up to date with everything which is something I really needed at the time. The students were great and everyone was welcoming, it was great to see such a diverse group of students working together.
My progression was very quick after my course and I was able to secure my job in formula a few months later.
What would be the piece of advice you would give to someone thinking of coming to college or specifically coming to North Kent College?
Each course has its strengths and benefits, they provide many transferable skills for whatever you may choose to do in future too. And just remember to enjoy the journey! Utilise it to the best possible extent!
Cleo Collins studied Level 3 Motorsport and Vehicle Technology at North Kent College between 2020 and 2022. To find out more about the course visit the Motor Vehicle subject page.