If thats his dream, let him be.
EvilElmo, better off doing it this way. Find an apprenticeship at an ordinary mechanic, learn the basics first, during that stage, do tafe as well. Then when you think your ready (at least 1yr), move up to the peformance workshops. University is going to be a long way away, and one of the hardest things you'll ever do. Its a really expensive step as well, so be sure to think twice about it.