What is a T Level? 

T Levels are a new and emerging Further Education (FE) qualification that are available to all learners aged 16 to 19. It is the perfect blend of 20% theoretical knowledge and 80% practical experience to provide the learner with a holistic understanding of the industry. This not only improves the learners' skills and confidence, but it also provides invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. 

It is difficult and daunting to know what you want to do after you finish here at Weston College, but once you have completed your T Level, there are many different progression routes available to you, whether that is a Degree Apprenticeship, University, or full-time employment. 

Degree Apprenticeship: 

You could choose to further your hands-on experience by applying for a Degree Apprenticeship and get a fully funded degree whilst earning a salary. Degree Apprenticeships are increasing in popularity as they have the best of both worlds, allowing you to obtain a Higher Education (HE) degree whilst also getting real-world work experience which many employers value.  

One student, Ben, was a former Construction: Design, Surveying and Planning, T Level learner and completed his practical placement at Hydrock. Once his T Level was complete, Hydrock recognised Ben’s talent and hard work and kept him on as a degree apprentice through University Centre Weston (UCW). 

Ben said, “I have developed my technical skills and have had the chance to experience every aspect of different teams which has allowed me to broaden my overview of the industry and experience different areas that I could potentially go into.  

T Levels are definitely worth it! They’re concise and specific to the industry you’re interested in which gives you a great understanding of what to expect for the future.” 

University: 

On the other hand, T Levels do provide learners with UCAS points so you also have the option to go to university and further your knowledge of the subject. At the end of your T Level, you will achieve an overall grade of either a pass, merit, distinction, or distinction* which are equivalent in UCAS points to three A Levels. 

One learner, Grace, studied the Early Years Educator T Level and finished with a Distinction. Her work placement was completed at Stationhouse Nursery where she gained a lot of hands-on experience and got the opportunity to work there over summer. She has now progressed to Norland University which is famous for providing the very best early years training and education course. 

Grace said, “I would tell anyone considering a T Level to 100% go for it, especially if you have an idea of what you want to do!  

I think it is the best of both worlds, you will have UCAS points to go to university if you wish, but you also have the practical experience which sets you apart from everyone else and allows you to find a job straight away! It’s a lot of hard work but so worth it.” 

Employment: 

Alternatively, you can also go straight into work after completing your T Level. Many employers encourage work experience prior to employment which is exactly what a T Level provides due to the placement hours, but it also gives learners a large, theoretical knowledge base surrounding the subject. The practical element that a T Level provides is incomparable and is thought to be invaluable to employers. 

Jodine, a Business, Management and Leadership T Level learner, completed her T Level placement at Sytner Mercedes-Benz and was even offered employment after her T Level was complete. She worked hard throughout her placement, and it paid off, learning many skills and applying them excellently in practical scenarios. 

Jodine said, “I gained invaluable insights into each role and its responsibilities, enabling me to define my future career aspirations, which ultimately led to me getting an amazing job opportunity and joining the team. 

The challenges encountered during the placement have fortified my resilience, contributing to a comprehensive and enriched learning journey that seamlessly complements my academic curriculum. 

I would recommend a T Level because the work experience element of the course can open many doors.” 

Overall, T Levels are proving to be a fantastic opportunity for young adults to experience a real-life working environment and begin networking at an early stage. It allows them to experience the expectations and professionalism that an industry entails and put their theoretical knowledge into practice.  

If you are interested in applying for a T Level in September, click here.