September 2020 sees the introduction of the new T-Level (Technical Level) qualifications. We've produced a quick guide for you to find out a bit more about them.
What are T-Levels?
T-Levels are a 2 year course for 16-19 year olds that has been developed in collaboration with businesses and employers to meet the needs of industry and prepare students for the world of work. Like BTEC National Extended Diplomas, they will be the equivalent of studying 3 A Levels and will be graded from ‘Pass’ to ‘Distinction *’.
How are T-Levels taught?
Over the course, students will look at the core theory, concepts and skills of their chosen area of study and gain specialist skills and knowledge for a chosen occupation or career. This will sit alongside an industry placement with an employer and work towards GCSE standard maths and English, if students don’t already have it. Unlike apprenticeships, more time is spent in the classroom and they hold UCAS points, meaning that if you’d like to go to university after completing the course, you can!
How long is the T-Level placement?
During their course students studying towards a T-Level course they will complete 315 hours (45 days) of work placement in their chosen area. This will be completed either in a block or college day release, and if needed, can be shared between employers. This is totally dependent on the course, the employer and the college. Companies such as Fujitsu, Skanska and GlaxoSmithKlein have already offered placements to students.
What subjects do T-Levels cover?
From September 2020, courses in Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction, Digital Production, Design & Development and Education & Childcare will be available to study, with a further 7 courses starting in 2021 and the remaining following in 2022/2023. Details of all available courses can be found here.
Where can you study a T-Level?
Only a handful of accredited colleges are offering T-Levels in 2020, however more and more colleges will be offering them from September 2021 with courses being rolled out fully over the next three years. To find a list of colleges and which courses they are, or will be offering, just click on this link and enter your postcode.
What can T-Levels lead on to?
After studying a T-Level, you may choose to further your studies by going to university, go into skilled employment or a Higher Level Apprenticeship. Find out about the UCAS points T-Levels hold at the following link.
Find out more
Visit the dedicated T-Level website
Explore our How to get to University resources. These give an overview of post-16 qualifications and university entry criteria with a presentation and activity sheet.
