Wiltshire College students take part in automotive challenge

Level 2 students from Wiltshire College & University Centre competed in an automotive skills competition designed to simulate the realities of a professional garage.

Teams from the Chippenham, Salisbury and Trowbridge campuses took part in the event, which was held at the college’s Trowbridge campus.

Wiltshire College & University Centre students competed in an automotive skills competition. (Image: Wiltshire College & University Centre)

Gary Pearson, deputy head for engineering and automotive at Trowbridge, said: "This competition was all about preparing students for the reality of the automotive industry.

"In a real garage, you’re working to deadlines, solving problems under pressure and relying on teamwork to get the job done safely and to a high standard.

"Experiences like this help our students develop the confidence, professionalism and resilience employers are looking for."

Each campus team of four students was required to complete three practical tasks: removing and refitting front brakes, removing and refitting a clutch on an engine rig, and removing and replacing rear shock absorbers, with a strict one-hour time limit for each activity.

The Trowbridge team was named overall winner.

Students praised the competition for its realism and the opportunity to work collaboratively under pressure.

JP Preece, 18, an automotive student from Westbury, said: "It was fun, different and engaging.

"Working together at a fast pace really made it feel like a real job in a garage."